tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-56249946901843581842018-11-19T22:28:40.768+08:00pusang kalyeI don't just blog travel, I live it.Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.comBlogger1385125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-9503021111892210892018-10-24T07:52:00.000+08:002018-11-04T23:02:44.501+08:00Hail Siargao! The #1 Island In Asia #SiargaWoW! <br /><br />I didn't want this dream trip to be ruined by over planning so I just made the right amount of research making sure I don't miss on the key attractions and other essentials like how much this and that costs and the transportation to take. Everything else including our itinerary I built once we set foot on the island. Stayed for 5 days 4 nights and I didn't even know that the 1st 2 nights accommodation I booked is located in Pacifico area around San Isidro and not in General Luna where most visitors stay. And Siargao Island is larger than I thought. End to end would take almost 2 hrs by motorbike non-stop! But everything turned out perfect as there are other attraction on the Northern side of the island that we accessed easier thanks to our first location.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43897393660/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20171005_115541"><img alt="1-20171005_115541" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4823/43897393660_84481490cf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>Travel blogs sure proved very helpful in my minimal planning. I would to comment the blog of <a href="https://www.justonewayticket.com/2014/04/26/ultimate-guide-siargao-philippines-for-non-surfers/">www.justonewayticket.com</a> for inspiring me and setting the adrenaline-filled anticipation. There, even wrote ......<br /><br /><i>"Siargao is addictive. <br />The first time I stayed 4 days. The second time, almost a year later I stayed for 10 days. Still not enough. After a week in Siargao I considered buying a piece of land there. I just thought to myself: Why not? Maybe I could stay forever...?"</i><br /><div><i><br /></i></div>Wow! And in another website, <a href="https://www.surfsiargao.com/siargao-faqs">www.surfsiargao.com</a><br /><div>I quote ........ "<i>Siargao is the kind of place that changes people. It'll make you question who you are and what you want out of life."</i></div><div><i><br /></i>To be honest,my eyebrows raised and read it and I thought "is that really how beautiful this place is?<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44698026925/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20171005_114112"><img alt="1-20171005_114112" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1930/44698026925_b2bb61896b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/36934047914" nbsp="" title="1-20171005_125449"><img alt="1-20171005_125449" height="360" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4503/36934047914_c169298ab8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br />There is one bad thing about Siargao that could not escape my observation --- they got the worst paper bills in any place I have been to. Perhaps because many people here get to excited to hit the water forgetting the have paper bills in their pocket? Siargao after all is the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines". Other than that,everything else in Siargao is great. As early as our first day, I instantly noticed that in Siargao, the green grass is greener, thr blue sky is bluer, the crystal clear water is clearer, the big surf waves are bigger, the fresh air is fresher and the friendly people are friendlier. Oh, and we went here during Harvest Festival period ( Korea, China, Vietnam) and we saw the full moon on our 2nd night there and it was thr largest moon (in its red-ish glory) I have ever seen in my life , yes, even full moon in Siargao is fuller! Oh, did I mention about beautiful sunrise and sunsets. And old school clubbing, drinking by the beach, fine dining, friendly locals and the best surf instructors in the Philippines. Yes, I failed on two consecutive attempts ( separate year) to learn surfing in Baler Aurora but I finally mastered it in Siargao. The joy beyond description. I owe it to my surf instructor!<br /><br /><br />But I am telling you early on, El Nido used to be in my #1 Destination list, Siargao has now taken that spot! Yes,that's hie hood it is. That's how overwhelming our stay was. It was not just surfing, Siargao got the sights and activities that could satisfy all your senses. ......<br /><br />TO BE CONTINUED...</div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-84245424207167492142018-08-28T00:57:00.000+08:002018-08-28T19:20:14.883+08:00Travelbee Business Inn Cebu: Best Value for as Low as Php 888 per Night<br />It's hard to fathom that Cebu City, being cosmopolitan and a tourist haven (both local and international) is lagging behind in terms of modern and classy hostels. It still has a lot of catching up to do with Manila which boasts of nice spaces for backpackers like Zen Hostel, MNL Boutique Hostel, Pink Manila among others.And yes, Lub D has recently opened a branch in Makati. Hallelujah!&nbsp; <a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/lub-d-hostel-makati-lub-d-brand-known.html">Check:&nbsp;http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/lub-d-hostel-makati</a><br /><br />Sure, there are many inns there in the 1000-peso range but nothing posh. If I only have the money, I would put up a hostel there similar to Lub d Bangkok which is my favorite of all the hostels I tried.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37308089006/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4310"><img alt="1-GOPR4310" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4442/37308089006_e66ccd40d1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/36645976974" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4308"><img alt="1-GOPR4308" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4493/36645976974_8b561d36bf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37325519742" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4302"><img alt="1-GOPR4302" height="434" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4368/37325519742_3f6f8c9b56_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37354987061/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4303"><img alt="1-GOPR4303" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4512/37354987061_b86071ab63_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Maybe close enough is Travelbee Business Inn , I discovered this place last quarter last year when I went solo backpacking in Cebu, Dumaguete and Siquijor. The first time ever that I made a mistake with my booking. I was about to check in at another cheap inn but they couldn't find my booking. Turns out I booked an earlier date. It was considered a no-show and therefore used. Sayang pera. And I didn't want the same accommodation to earn twice so I checked Travelbee Business Inn. I happen to notice it on my way to my inn. I didn't know I would end up here.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/36646041044" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4305"><img alt="1-GOPR4305" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4465/36646041044_28fa258c00_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/36685626873" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4300"><img alt="1-GOPR4300" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4424/36685626873_9dee1420bc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Although Travel Bee Business Inn Cebu would still not qualify for the posh hostel I am looking for, it everything one can ask for for a budget accommodation ---clean, trendy, breathable. Best of all, it is well below the 1,000 Php price. And with big room cuts, what more can you ask for. Cable tv, check, Hot shower check, wall lamps that add dimension to the room, check.<br /><br />My stay here was brief but I certainly achieved what I cam here for. To get a good rest after the day tour to Leah's Temple and Sirao Flower Farm especially because I had to leave for Dumaguete early the next day.<br /><br /><b>Read:</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/02/the-500-peso-habal-habal-tour-of-temple.html">http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/02/the-500-peso-habal-habal-tour-of-temple.html</a><br /><br /></div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/36646086974/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4297"><img alt="1-GOPR4297" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4472/36646086974_ebef62a371_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37308176106/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4299"><img alt="1-GOPR4299" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4488/37308176106_bff1a1ea9d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37355004181/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4298"><img alt="1-GOPR4298" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4454/37355004181_48263c1812_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">They also have a pretty decent restaurant at the lobby floor but I couldn't tell anything about the food because I was mostly outside during my stay. Mango street, which is known as the nightlife center of Cebu,&nbsp; is nearby that's why. Also, there is a karinderya next to Travelbee and I enjoyed eating home-cooked meals there.</div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37099311980/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4321"><img alt="1-GOPR4321" height="438" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4399/37099311980_16eed63c69_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37099252910/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4311"><img alt="1-GOPR4311" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4510/37099252910_ef31f4a2c7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37099306440/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4318"><img alt="1-GOPR4318" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4404/37099306440_fb41a7cf7e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><div style="text-align: left;">At any rate, this short post is for those who are looking for a decent accommodation in Cebu City under the Php 1000 price range. If you are just passing by the city to your forward destination, this is the best value inn for you.&nbsp;</div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/23503732018/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4306"><img alt="1-GOPR4306" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4443/23503732018_1a7e569b83_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /></div>For more information, do visit their website or follow them on Facebook for the latest updates on promos and events.<br /><br /><b>Email:</b>&nbsp;<a href="mailto:reservations@travelbee.ph?__xt__=33.%7B%22logging_data%22%3A%7B%22event_type%22%3A%22clicked_open_url_action%22%2C%22impression_info%22%3A%22eyJmIjp7InN0eWxlIjoiMzgiLCJpdGVtX2NvdW50IjoiMCJ9fQ%22%2C%22surface%22%3A%22www_page_about_tab%22%2C%22interacted_story_type%22%3A%22718520444955922%22%2C%22session_id%22%3A%229308b0472c0c11d2f49a07d47b533d57%22%7D%7D">reservations@travelbee.ph</a><br /><b>Website</b>:&nbsp;<a href="http://www.travelbee.ph/">http://www.travelbee.ph</a><br /><b>Facebook:</b> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/TravelbeeBusinessInn/about/?ref=page_internal">https://www.facebook.com/pg/TravelbeeBusinessInn/about/?ref=page_internal</a><br /><div><br /></div><div><br /></div><div><br /></div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-39460297350322185692018-08-27T19:42:00.000+08:002018-08-27T22:09:34.892+08:00Sabor Bar de Vinos: The Wine Bar at Novotel Manila Araneta CenterWith the already strong main restaurant that is Food Exchange Manila and the popular snack bar that is The Gourmet Bar, Sabor Bar de Vinos is a perfect compliment to the outstanding F&amp; D offerings of Novotel Manila Araneta Center.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>I was at the place more than a week ago to check what they have on offering and I really enjoyed theie wine mixes especially Fortress Sangria for it's subtle taste thatt comes with a good punch. Their tapas are exquisite, thanks to The Gourmet Bar which is well known for their succulent tapas.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30337394608/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_180206"><img alt="1-20180816_180206" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1818/30337394608_3ab0fc28c8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43486946734/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_174510"><img alt="1-20180816_174510" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1853/43486946734_dd3f4f8c41_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; color: #1d2129; font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot; , &quot;segoe ui&quot; , &quot;helvetica&quot; , &quot;arial&quot; , sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30337470428/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-size: medium; white-space: normal;" title="1-20180816_182354"><img alt="1-20180816_182354" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1861/30337470428_609be24cf9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a> </span></div>Sabor Bar Vinos is located at the lobby floor of Novotel Manila Araneta Center next to The Food Exchange Manila. This section used to be an extension of the latter and I like how they converted it into a wine bar. Also, the once smoking section is now part of the bar and this extends from the escalator section to the extreme end of the lobby following the glass walls.<br /><br />The main bar is as classy as it could get and the other section hip with a Cubao-ex feels. Whether you are feeling fancy or you want a more casual mood, you can definitely find your perfect spot here. I like the way they transformed the smoking area with its main portion exhibiting a funky wall painting.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42397245230/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_175529"><img alt="1-20180816_175529" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1820/42397245230_9a7a18243f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42397242960/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_174856"><img alt="1-20180816_174856" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1897/42397242960_5f7919b06a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30337398928/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_180302"><img alt="1-20180816_180302" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1872/30337398928_9df95ddc34_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30337394608/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_180206"><img alt="1-20180816_180206" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1818/30337394608_3ab0fc28c8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30337397238/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_180313"><img alt="1-20180816_180313" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1819/30337397238_2a4ed0ba21_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>I was impressed at how extensive wines list is. You can go as low as 900 php and as high as 19,000 php per bottle. To me, a hotel wine bar with a 900 php wine is a surprise. That means you can frequent the place to chill and not worry about hurting the wallet and splurge if you feel like it.<br /><br />The wine list includes the herbal and fruity Waterfalls Road Eddy Sauvignon Blanc, the premium Clarendelle by Haut Brion Bordeaux; the delicate Anna Codorniu Rosé, the dessert wine Cosecheros Y Criadores Infinitus and the Eclat de Rosé Perlant. For a momentous occasion, the Dom Perignon is ready for the party.<br /><div><div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script> <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42397245920/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_174711"><img alt="1-20180816_174711" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1831/42397245920_c2e35d89a3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>Available in the menu is the well-loved Gambas Al Jillo of plump sustainable prawn pieces enveloped in velvety rich sauce of garlic, butter and white wine, finished off with paprika and pepper flakes for a good hint of spice priced only at Php 360 nett; the comforting yet flavorful Galician Style Chicken Empanada stuffed with marinated chicken, herbs and aromatics married with olives and peppers for only Php 280 nett; and the ultimate bar nibble, the deep fried savory Bitter Ballen made from imported veal meat mixed with parsley and onion at Php 280 nett.<br /><br />Health conscious and vegetarian foodies are not to fret, with options such as the Greek Salad Skewers made with fresh cucumbers and cherry tomatoes from Novotel Manila Araneta Center’s very own El Dorado farm; the Berenjenas Fritas made of organic eggplant with homegrown basil and molasses deep fried to goodness and served with garlic dip; or the bold and earthy Beetroot Arancini with Goat Cheese.<br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43299224155/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_181402"><img alt="1-20180816_181402" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1897/43299224155_4b7f87b5d0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43486989824/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_180953"><img alt="1-20180816_180953" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1882/43486989824_8d5d50df75_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30337425608/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_181554"><img alt="1-20180816_181554" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1852/30337425608_b119a578a2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44205000061/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_182209"><img alt="1-20180816_182209" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1859/44205000061_6479fa99cb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43487023114/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_182734"><img alt="1-20180816_182734" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1811/43487023114_224264df88_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43299252505/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_183518"><img alt="1-20180816_183518" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1864/43299252505_3f073a1c3e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br />The cheese platter is perfect for a long night. Don't miss to try smoked salmon roulade, it is one of my favorites. I can't remember how much gambas I ate, I love shrimps and this is the perfect gambas for my palate.&nbsp; The chorizo in red wine came as a surprise, it's chorizo with a kick, thanks to the perfect blend of red wine. Bitterballen is also nice. It comes with different dips that you will surely enjoy. Also make sure you don't miss Galician Empanada.<br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44204996431/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_182134"><img alt="1-20180816_182134" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1874/44204996431_265714a2f3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43486949474/in/dateposted/" style="font-family: &quot;helvetica neue&quot;, &quot;segoe ui&quot;, helvetica, arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; white-space: pre-wrap;" title="1-20180816_174338"><img alt="1-20180816_174338" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1857/43486949474_623508eaa9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43487030764/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_184520"><img alt="1-20180816_184520" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1814/43487030764_18bbfe27d4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Unlimited Sangria for only Php 700!</span></b></div>This article came a little late but For the month of August, guests who will order a bottle of wine will get one free tapa or get another complimentary glass of sangria for every order of Sabor’s signature sangria by the glass! You may also enjoy unlimited sangria or unlimited wine from 6pm to 8pm for only Php 700 nett. You still have a few days to take advantage of this treat!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43486950864/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_173901"><img alt="1-20180816_173901" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1835/43486950864_f660ceacdc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44156919482/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180816_175541"><img alt="1-20180816_175541" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1897/44156919482_f52953ec6d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div>By its name Sabor, derived from the Latin word sapor or sapōrem, which means flavor, reflects that the bar itself, much like its interiors, serve bold, enticing and sensual delights. Sabor Bar de Vinos is open from Tuesdays to Sundays, 3PM to 3AM. <br /><br />Discover more about Sabor Bar de Vinos on social media by using the #SABORtheMoment. For inquiries and reservations, please call (02) 990 7888 or email H7090@accor.com.<br /><br /><br />____________________<br />More information about Novotel Manila Araneta Center<br /><a href="http://www.novotel.com/">www.novotel.com</a>,<br /><a href="http://www.accorhotels.com/">www.accorhotels.com</a>, or<a href="http://www.novotelmanilaaranetacenter.com/">&nbsp;</a><br /><a href="http://www.novotelmanilaaranetacenter.com/">www.novotelmanilaaranetacenter.com.</a><br /><br /><br /></div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-22490949295644035012018-08-21T04:44:00.000+08:002018-08-21T15:44:10.647+08:00Concepcion Iloilo: Bulubudiangan, Agho and Chico Islands Pack an Attraction that Could Rival Islas Gigantes<div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">It's Northern counterpart --- Islas Gigantes --- may be more popular but the islands of central Iloilo in the town of Conception packs an attraction that I find far more beautiful than that of the former. Yes, I like it better here. The island group consisting of Bulubudiangan, Agho and Chico and Bagosipol are to die for.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Shoutout to <a href="https://www.lakwatsero.com/destinations/concepcion-islands-bulubadiangan-island-agho-island-and-more/#sthash.v6KOoTUm.dpbs">Lakwatsero</a> and my friend Francis off <a href="https://www.coyxxx.com/2016/06/the-charms-of-concepcion-islands.html">www.coyxxx.com</a> for their blogs on this place. We were initially skeptical to leave our comforts in Iloilo City but we finally managed to get our asses here thanks to the confidence we got because of their write ups.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29110863797/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_163536-002"><img alt="1-20180318_163536-002" height="441" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1816/29110863797_b97fd41dc1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41567737650/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_090213"><img alt="1-20180319_090213" height="396" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1765/41567737650_1ca76a9951_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">How We Got To Concepcion Iloilo</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">Conception Iloilo is actually located at the central section of the province if you are to consider Iloilo City and Carles ( Islas Gigantes) as reference points. It is a good 2.5 hrs bus ride from Iloilo City, one that is not stressful at all because the flow of traffic is smooth and continues. Thanks to a good road network and the absence of big towns along the way that slows down traffic.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. Go to Ceres Bus Terminal. Ride the bus with the signage "Concepcion" (Sara) for around 110 pesos fare.</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Register the local Tourism Office of Concepcion town.</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. They will assign a boat that you can rent for 1,500 php one way.<br /><br />PS: Kudos to Ceres Bus Transport for the impressive terminal (exclusive to Ceres) they put up for trip that are North-bound including Roxas City and Caticlan ( Boracay).<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43310383774/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_122036"><img alt="1-20180318_122036" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1838/43310383774_094c32e5f3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Boat Rental Quite Pricey</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Concepcion is so ready to take a slice of the tourism pie to the point that I feel that they are going for the kill. The reason why they want you to register at the Tourism Office is so that you will avail of the boats they sanction. Whilst rates are standard --1,500 php -- I find that really expensive if you are a group of two just like in our case. And take note, 1,500 is only good for taking you to the island where you want to camp overnight, one way! Another 1,500 is for the island hopping tour. Quite a ripoff. So the best advice is to go in a group of at least 10 pax. That way you can save a lot.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And there is no going around this rate if you are staying overnight because even if you arrive early in the morning and go straight to island hopping (1,500php) , you will have a problem going back to the mainland the next day. That means you will still have to charter another boat for another 1,500 php. Same thing.<br /><br />PS: I asked&nbsp;Bulubudiangan Island as for their boat rates and it is also 1,500 php for island hopping but you have to add 1,000 php for yopu to be taken back to the mainland. wtf!</div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43999945712/in/dateposted/" title="1-20180319_122903"><img alt="1-20180319_122903" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1838/43999945712_34394dfdeb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Cheap Way to Go</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">Taking cue from some who have been here, we didn't go to Tourism Office. We went straight to the port and asked some locals if we could hitch a ride with them. There is a boat bound for Tagubanhan Island and they agreed to drop us at&nbsp;Bulubudiangan Island. They had to take a little detour so we paid around 500 php for the ride. It is the same boat that I contacted for island hopping the next day which costed us 1,800 php including the ride back to the mainland. this is not really advisable for safety reasons (say, you are not registered with the tourism office so they cannot account on you in case of sea accidents) but we took the gamble anyway. And it was fun. We had amazing time in the islands and at the same time made friends with the locals.</div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43310388014/in/dateposted/" title="1-20180318_153153"><img alt="1-20180318_153153" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1791/43310388014_bdfb35d6d2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Overnight at Bulubudiangan</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">There are two islands where you can stay overnight --Bulubudiangan and Agho -- both already have basic facilities for a comfortable enough stay like open cottages, restrooms,huts, freshwater and a sari-sari store. They have generator which runs until 10:00 pm which I find very helpful for charging gadgets. A fan is provided in the room so you can take advantage of that as long as the generator is on.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43329286974/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_163328"><img alt="1-20180318_163328" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1780/43329286974_35cd94aba7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42239055270/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_070718"><img alt="1-20180319_070718" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1816/42239055270_b0bda45b5c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29110859677/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_163203-001"><img alt="1-20180318_163203-001" height="473" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1840/29110859677_e4d112b54f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30180059008/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_070628"><img alt="1-20180319_070628" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1835/30180059008_ae76b957c7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30179713098/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_163300"><img alt="1-20180318_163300" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1831/30179713098_ca45180b9a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44048238071/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_070701"><img alt="1-20180319_070701" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1771/44048238071_c05e4db22f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44047789201/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_163211"><img alt="1-20180318_163211" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1812/44047789201_fc5b8b0fba_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43999688482/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_202719-001"><img alt="1-20180318_202719-001" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1837/43999688482_704d88f503_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: left;">We told the island caretaker that we prefer pitching a tent (rent) as it is cheaper at 500 pesos but they told us we can stay in one of the hut accommodations instead for the same price. I heard they were fully boooked the day before ( Saturday) and us coming on a Sunday and staying overnight proved to be an advantage.&nbsp;</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />We opted Bulubudiangan because we wanted to spend more time on its sandbar which is really beautiful in the afternoon before sunset and its tidal flats very striking on sunrise.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43142013635/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_053127"><img alt="1-20180319_053127" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1793/43142013635_10038f912b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30180057248/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_055556"><img alt="1-20180319_055556" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1840/30180057248_802897505a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30180053338/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_054913"><img alt="1-20180319_054913" height="424" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1837/30180053338_277100361f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30180090538/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_061004"><img alt="1-20180319_061004" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1832/30180090538_6164d53f52_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44048241011/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_165830"><img alt="1-20180318_165830" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1799/44048241011_d468b34288_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29506092008/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180318_165317"><img alt="1-20180318_165317" height="419" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1805/29506092008_a4aac86406_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Agho Island</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;">The boat we contacted arrived at around 8:00 am. By that time, we already had breakfast and had all our stuff prepared to move out and hop to the other island namely Agho, Chico and Bagosipol. It took us 30 minutes or so to Agho where we stayed a while. The island looks stunning even on approach from the boat. It was end of March so the weather was perfect. Up close, the sand is powdery white and fine.<br /><br />I noticed that there are also some hit accommodations here. There is also a volleyball net set up. That made me think we should have stayed here as I love beach volleyball and the island also looks homey. But the island was rather deserted unlike in Bulubudiangan where a few visitors come and go. For the entire duration were here we were the only tourists. We had the whole beach for ourselves.<br /><br />What I love about Agho is that you get an uninterrupted view of the imposing and picturesque mountain in Pan de Azucar which makes for a postcard perfect shot. The swimming area is also nice, a few rocks scattered on thye seafloor but the water is really very clear it we enjoyed swimming here. It was another perfect spot to done my superman cape. yay!<br /><br /></div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44048270901/in/dateposted/" title="1-20180319_084001"><img alt="1-20180319_084001" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1834/44048270901_392e3ddd87_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30180195968/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_084257"><img alt="1-20180319_084257" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1796/30180195968_6d52f9ac1c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42239102930/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_092101"><img alt="1-20180319_092101" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1812/42239102930_3bcdfd6151_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43329706244/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_090025"><img alt="1-20180319_090025" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1799/43329706244_ac3d907ef6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/30180198518/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_092048"><img alt="1-20180319_092048" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1792/30180198518_0ea57c8eac_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44048269611/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_084948"><img alt="1-20180319_084948" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1817/44048269611_6ba996371a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/44048271621/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_085012-001"><img alt="1-20180319_085012-001" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1774/44048271621_b85c15ec75_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43329733694/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_093535"><img alt="1-20180319_093535" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1831/43329733694_9977e618fc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29111490247/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_091928"><img alt="1-20180319_091928" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1818/29111490247_f3cf66d1d6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41567737650/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180319_090213"><img alt="1-20180319_090213" height="396" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1765/41567737650_1ca76a9951_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"></span></b><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Chico Island</b></span></b></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"> </span></b><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And then there is Chico island, a small private island with a small white sandy beach and bordered by a rocky section which reminds me a bit of Guyam Island in Siargao.Despite that, the sand of the beach here is really fine, even finer than both Agho and Bulubudiangan. I heard that on low tide, the water gets too shallow that you can walk all the way to the nearby island of Bagosipol which also has a beach with a sandbar.<br /><br />&nbsp;The owners were here during our visit and we got to chat a bit with them when they collected our money for entrance fee which is 25 pesos per person.. And the lady also said she owns the beach in Bulubudiangan so since we planned to go there next, she also collected another 50 pesos and told us that if somebody approach us in the other island to collect, we just tell the person she already collected our fee.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43329939424/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR1891"><img alt="1-GOPR1891" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1800/43329939424_bf6553a00f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29111492287/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR1892"><img alt="1-GOPR1892" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1816/29111492287_773eea5796_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43142350995/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-G0461827"><img alt="1-G0461827" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1818/43142350995_8968238fbb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Bagosipol Island</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">This was our last stop for the island hopping tour and my least favorite both for the beach and the experience. It is still nice here but Agho and Bulubudiangan certainly set the bar high. Since it was our last stop, we, including our two boatmen who are locals in one of the island groups in Concepcion all went for a swim.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">And then a man in his late 40's came with a bunch of kids in their school uniform. We watched them approaching forming a long line by the beach as if they were to mob us. The kids soon disappeared with only the old man talking to ask asking for our entrance fee. So I said that the owner who is in Chico Island at that time already collected the fee and we just have to inform him to consult with her if we really did pay. And then he started complaining that we have to pay separate for this beach including for our boatmen because they were also swimming. He said we should have paid to him because he is the real owner, and the one who collected our fee (her sister) is already married is not the real owner anymore because she already bears her wife's surname.<i> Ang labo diba?</i> A classic example of sibling rivalry only for a small amount of money. And we kept explaining to him but he kept telling us the same thing. I think he was drunk at that time so it was pretty difficult to make him understand. I was a bit annoyed to be honest but it did not stop us from enjoying our time here. We had a good time swimming to our our heart's delight even if it was noontime and scorching hot before we finally decided to go back to mainland and call it a day.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43142352485/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-G0582224"><img alt="1-G0582224" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1778/43142352485_5d7e018cc4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: left;">Except for that very very minor annoyance, our overnight stay at Bulubudiangan island and island hopping to Agho, Chico and Bagosipol&nbsp; island was nothing short of awesome. I highly recommend this place to anyone who wants to enjoy sheer beauty and memorable island experience. Indeed, the islands in Concepcion Iloilo could give Islas Gigantes a run for the money!<br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Additional Tips</span></b></div></div></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. I don't encourage my readers to do as we did not going through tourism office and contacting a local boat to take us to the islands, but if you want to do it, why not! Travel at your own risk. It is part of the fun. Make sure though that you talk to your boatman and ask them if it safe as I heard some people form Tourism office do check from time to time if boats taking tourists to the islands are registered with them or have permit to transport guests.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Sara is the next big town to Cenception and the nearest where you can withdraw money via atm so make sure you bring enough cash before setting off for the islands.</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. There is 4G cellphone signal in&nbsp;Bulubudiangan Island because of its proximity to the mainland.<br />4. Make sure you wake up early in time for sunrise, especially during tidal low, the rocky area of&nbsp; the Eastern section of the island looks beautiful.<br /><br />have a safe and fun trip!<br /><br /><b>YOU MIGHT ALSO WANT TO READ:</b><br /><b>Islas Gigantes</b>-&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2015/05/islas-gigantes-little-bit-of-el-nido.html">http://www.pusangkalye.net/2015/05/islas-gigantes-little-bit-of-el-nido.html</a><br /><b>Damires Hills</b>&nbsp;<a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/damires-hills-tierra-verde-farm-resort.html">- http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/damires-hills-tierra-verde-farm-resort.html</a></div></div><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-85234328031650028742018-08-10T10:26:00.000+08:002018-08-10T20:34:18.939+08:00Luxury Backpackers Hostel Hanoi: Best Value Hostel with Staff Friendliness Beyond Mere Exercise of Work <div>I visited Hanoi the 2nd time I am happy I was able to achieve what I wanted to achieve. It was a short 3-day trip so I wanted it to be as chill as possible, not putting too many places to see and things to do in the itinerary and putting aside any temptation to go to Halong Bay or Sapa. I simply wanted to go for daily leisurely walks around old quarter and discover places to eat without rushing. I managed to visit again the ones that made me long to return like Banh Mi 25, the spring roll shop near the St. Joseph Church, Guilang Cafe, the eateries around Dong Xuan Market and explore the ones I failed to see before like the Imperial Citadel and One Pillar Pagoda.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="-webkit-text-stroke-width: 0px; color: black; font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;; font-size: medium; font-style: normal; font-variant-caps: normal; font-variant-ligatures: normal; font-weight: 400; letter-spacing: normal; margin: 0px; orphans: 2; text-align: start; text-decoration-color: initial; text-decoration-style: initial; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; widows: 2; word-spacing: 0px;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43738689281/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" style="font-family: &quot;Times New Roman&quot;;" title="1-20180723_101934"><img alt="1-20180723_101934" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/930/43738689281_cc99c0dffd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It helped that I stayed at Luxury Backpacker's Hostel along Ngo Huyen Street. The hostel is located in a narrow inner street but in a very central location. It is onlya few minutes walk to St. Joseph Cathedral and Hoan Kiem Lake which is the most popular and revered lake among the many lakes in Hanoi.</div></div></div><div><br />Ngo Huyen is home to many other hostels are located. This is a small version of Khaosan Road in Bangkok where travelers from all over the world converge. Expect that the street is so full of life day and night. Everything you need is within reach. There is even a bookstore next to Luxury Backpackers where I feel safe exchanging my dollars at very good rates.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42012927380/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_182305"><img alt="1-20180723_182305" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/930/42012927380_478e5e39ef_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43104696054/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180724_104334"><img alt="1-20180724_104334" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/932/43104696054_dedd6d2c57_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28971505067/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_101950"><img alt="1-20180723_101950" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1813/28971505067_09ddb1cf9d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">About Luxury Backpackers Hanoi</span></b></b></div><b></b><br /><div><div style="text-align: left;">56 Ngo Huyen, Hoan Kiem Hanoi, Vietnam</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://luxurybackpackers.com.vn/">http://luxurybackpackers.com.vn</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;">Luxury backpackers has been in operation since the beginning of 2016. The hotel is located at No 56 Ngo Huyen street , Hoan Kiem District , Ha Noi, Viet Nam. opening up a long new road which went through many different names before its current title of being Ngo Huyen. This street was used to be named Luxury backpackers.</div><br /><div style="text-align: left;">In their website it says<i> " Our operational slogan is “Come with expectation, leave with satisfaction and home sweet home”. We stay clear and focused on our goal. We are highly proud of our service, offered by our management team and staff, highly trained and experienced, who are ready to be at your service anytime, to make sure that your experience in Hanoi will be a memorable one.</i></div><br /><i></i><i></i><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><i><i>Thirdly, we would like to see ourselves as one of the representatives of Vietnam tourism in general and Hanoi people in particular. We take Hanoi’s image as our own reflection, and Hanoi’s fame is our recognition. We would love to invite you to see for yourselves the fast development of our country, the everyday life of our friendly and kind people, and the authentic culture of the area and its citizen. It is this city that we love, and we are about to show off the best quality it has."</i></i></div><i></i></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Call:&nbsp; +(84)32585566</div><div style="text-align: left;">Email: <a href="mailto:thuhien761985@gmail.com?__xts__=">thuhien761985@gmail.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/luxurybackpackers/about/?">https://www.facebook.com/pg/luxurybackpackers</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43022402954/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_085041"><img alt="1-20180723_085041" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/934/43022402954_8d5d0526b5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Very Homey Lobby</span></b></span></b></div></div></div><div>I like the lobby, how pleasant it looks to the eyes and how relaxing the orientation is from the reception area to the inner section where one can dine or simply sit by the wooden chairs and have your beer. The lantern-style ceiling lamps helps set the cozy,intimate mood at night. All I can say is that I love hanging out here. Or maybe I have said it over and over. lols. My favorite spot was the table next to fridge so that I can easily grab my favorite Hanoi beer and drink to my heart's desire.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29867549378/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_091121"><img alt="1-20180723_091121" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/852/29867549378_e3a4d911f4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div>We originally booked a private room for two (2) nights but we also tried the dormitory room on our first night because we landed from Manila past midnight and we didn't feel like sleeping at the airport so we went straight to the hostel and found ourselves in one of their comfortable dormitory rooms which costs only $8 per bed .<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-size: large;">Superior Dormitory Rooms</span></b><br />I already stayed in one of the hostels on the same street and I find their dormitory room at Luxury Backpackers far better thanks to separate curtains for utmost privacy, wooden bed frames which is more sturdy (less noisy too) and chiropractic bed mattress which is friendly to your back on long-term stay. The lockers under the bed is very spacious and there are individual reading lamps per bed too. I also like the fact that there are two toilets/showers and they are both kept clean at all times. The airconditioning system is also very efficient. It was rainy season when we visit and it could feel humid at times but I never felt that while inside both the dormitory and private rooms.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43104687104/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180724_085448"><img alt="1-20180724_085448" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1797/43104687104_40134efda6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42834367985/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_142032"><img alt="1-20180723_142032" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/853/42834367985_3842980283_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43690624682/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_141830"><img alt="1-20180723_141830" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/850/43690624682_5f59198258_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41929757270/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_142022"><img alt="1-20180723_142022" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/848/41929757270_968eee85c7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Private Rooms at $35</span></b><br />Their private rooms are spacious and aesthetically pleasant with comfort as 2nd-to-none priority. The queen-size bed allows for a pleasant sleep even when with a companion.&nbsp; Despite the many hostels around, Luxury Backpackers is a standout thanks to its very friendly staff and nice rooms. I like private rooms for the privacy they afford. Having our own room, we could just scatter our things around and not worry about bothering others.<br /><br />The shower heater is very efficient and it is cool that other than a safety box, there is also a personal fridge by the closet to keep our drinks chill. It could be a bit bothersome having so many switches in the room but private rooms are indeed generous with lights so you can choose which lights to turn on or off to achieve a certain degree of dimension to the room. I guess it would be nice if the have bigger mirrors in the room but with two available ones, what is there to complain about?<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28903790917/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4857"><img alt="1-GOPR4857" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1813/28903790917_6e425ee292_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42916722745/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_145306"><img alt="1-20180723_145306" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1838/42916722745_9e301bc607_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29970237278/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4851"><img alt="1-GOPR4851" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/932/29970237278_ddb8cda0e3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43104682544/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_150238"><img alt="1-20180723_150238" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/939/43104682544_73f8767bbc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43104682914/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_150223"><img alt="1-20180723_150223" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1779/43104682914_3d4e28bc2f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Hearty Breakfast</span></b><br />The $8 room rate for dormitory rooms already includes breakfast which is normally $3. Same goes with the private rooms. Breakfast is ala carte with choice of some local and international set meals. For Vietnamese food, the options are 1. Vietnamese noodles with chicken or beef ( pho ga) and 2. Egg fried rice ( com rang trung). For international dishes, 1. two friend eggs with bacon and baguette, 2. butter, jam, honey with baguette, 3. pancake with honey and 4. scrambled eggs with hotdog and baguette.</div><div><br /></div><div>I like the fact that they have more options for international meal sets. The Old Quarter is flooded with local street food anywhere you look but for those who stay here for days or weeks, a little comfort food for breakfast could be a welcome treat. We originally planned to skip having breakfast at the hostel on our first day but ended up having it anyway because we were already starving when we woke up. Other than the one (1) plated breakfast you can avail, there is free fruits, unlimited coffee or juice and soup. A good compliment. My friend opted pho on our first day and it was not bad at all. You can of course find better ones downtown but this one is good enough.&nbsp; As for me, I went for egg friend rice. Although it looks rather plain, it is actually nice and addicted, so addicted that I had it for two consecutive days.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43022416034/in/dateposted/" title="1-20180723_091331"><img alt="1-20180723_091331" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/934/43022416034_8948bdbc6d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43022417104/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_091236"><img alt="1-20180723_091236" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/857/43022417104_b4a09a9f07_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41929252430/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_084039"><img alt="1-20180723_084039" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/856/41929252430_c85a1f8062_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28885081527/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180724_090258"><img alt="1-20180724_090258" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1816/28885081527_478497cc4e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28885083097/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180724_090209"><img alt="1-20180724_090209" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1774/28885083097_5c8e5a806d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Staff Friendliness&nbsp;</span></b><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Beyond Mere Exercise of Work&nbsp;</span></b><br />The smiles of the staff makes you wanna hang around for a good chat. Since day 1, we were greeted by Linh who was all smiles even if arrived past 2:00 am and Vhoung was also there to assist us in our rooms. These two I have chatted with so many times for the rest of our stay here as they took time to talk to me and share their thoughts and answer the many questions I have about Hanoi and Vietnam life. You know, locals know best and you learn more by talking to locals than mere sightseeing.<br /><br />For me to look forward to going back here at night to drink beer at the lobby rather than outside is telling of how much I feel at home here and enjoy the company of the staff. I would like to shout out to James, Linh and Vhuong for going out of their way to assist us and for the wonderful time sharing ideas and travel experiences. Even Hein, the manager was so friendly and hands on. You all made us feel like family!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42011587220/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_221959"><img alt="1-20180723_221959" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1831/42011587220_d71a45ed6c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42011584840/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_222011"><img alt="1-20180723_222011" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/931/42011584840_4c5b0a1fce_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42011586310/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180723_222010"><img alt="1-20180723_222010" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1800/42011586310_4ebafa495a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></div><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Two (2) Luxury Backpackers Locations</span></b></div>Luxury Backpackers Hostel has two locations in Hanoi with the other one just behind our hostel at Ngo Huyen street. It is the same size but is located in an inner section rather than along the street. All rooms here are private and when I paid a visit, it is indeed more quiet here. If you want more privacy and peace then this is where you owe to stay. Their private rooms are spacious and straightforward with light room paint color.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43792112012/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4895"><img alt="1-GOPR4895" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1794/43792112012_bdff38380e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43792113572/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4893"><img alt="1-GOPR4893" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/930/43792113572_4ce0a06501_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43840242331/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4881"><img alt="1-GOPR4881" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1791/43840242331_ce1ff59ff4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29970310148/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4888"><img alt="1-GOPR4888" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1800/29970310148_3edb1f8451_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43123162904/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR4868"><img alt="1-GOPR4868" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1812/43123162904_ab81781310_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Kindness That You Will Always Remember&nbsp;</span></b></div><div>This I will never forget. We were to book for a Grab car for the airport when Linh approached me. He asked what transport we will take and I mentioned Grab. He asked how much it costs from my app. I showed him --around 350,000 dong which I find cheaper compared to the 420,000 we paid on a regular taxi on our way here. He said maybe he could find us a cheaper rate using his app and true indeed he found one at around 250,000 dong. This is because he frequently uses his Grab app to book taxi so he gets cheaper rate.<br /><br />This is the meaning of going out of your way to help guests. Linh is only an intern at Luxury Backpackers but he takes his job by heart. This is consistent with the friendly and caring nature of the staff at the hostel. I am deeply thankful for this act of kindness.<br /><br />&nbsp;I already miss the staff here. Hope to see you guys again when I come back.<br /><br />______________________</div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-37647306233534281742018-07-07T04:42:00.000+08:002018-07-08T21:57:42.990+08:00GUIMARAS Day Tour: Island Hopping In #NuevaValenciaGuimaras is a big island and is actually a province in itself but it is dwarfed by the sheer size of Panay Island. You cannot blame me therefore if I imagine it to be a satellite island of Iloilo Province. I simply see the resemblance ( and significance) of these satellite islands to key tourist destinations in the Philippines. Cebu got its Mactan island counterpart, Davao got Samal Island and Bohol got Panglao. Not to mention, there is also the Negros-Siquijor tandem. These smaller islands next to big towns/ cities compliment the tourism offering of the area.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/29404490228/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_134257"><img alt="1-20180316_134257" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1809/29404490228_8fb26f0a1b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Fifteen minutes by boat and you are already in Camiguin ready to be transported to a different world. The island province is well known for its mangoes, and windmills and old ( crumbling) lighthouse and beaches too. Recently, many Instagram posts has put it in the "island hopping destination" map and we though to give it a check ourselves.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41464690690/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_151147"><img alt="1-20180316_151147" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/838/41464690690_b2683a5d93_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><br />We were booked at Richmonde Hotel in Iloilo City so the best option for us ( since we didn't want to miss maximizing our stay in the best&nbsp; hotel in Iloilo ) was to go on a day trip.<br /><br />We left the city early, at around 9:00 am ( if you can call it early) and were in Guimaras in no time.<br />The are two point of entries to the island, eaither via Buenavista or Jordan so better check what your itinerary is because there are separate ports in Iloilo city for each entry points. If you are to visit, say the windmills, better enter via Buenavista. Since our goal was to check some of the island in Nueva Valencia, we to the Iloilo-Jordan route.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43225304492/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_095833"><img alt="1-20180316_095833" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/845/43225304492_ca793ff5e6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43225302792/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_100444"><img alt="1-20180316_100444" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/919/43225302792_7a6493eb48_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43225301262/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_100607"><img alt="1-20180316_100607" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1802/43225301262_349a1db0aa_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274411091/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_102212"><img alt="1-20180316_102212" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/919/43274411091_d84621e8ee_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274406031/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_102257"><img alt="1-20180316_102257" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/835/43274406031_eb73542bb9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Mode of Transport</span></b><br />There are no taxis in Guimaras so the only mode of transport are jeepney and tricycles. While jeepneys are cheaper, you have to wait longer to have them filled so as they could leave for their destination. So we opted to take a tricycle instead. Fare to Nueva Valencia is standard, 250 pesos per tricycle regardless if there is only 1 passenger. Going back, they charge 300 pesos, the extra 50 pesos supposedly as charge for their return trip to the town.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28405003087/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_102552"><img alt="1-20180316_102552" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1785/28405003087_77f2286d69_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Alibuhod Beach</b></span><br />So what you want to do is to get to Alubihod Beach. This is a public beach but since it is in a small cove with private resorts covering all the cove, you need to go through any of the resorts to get to the beach. That means you need to pay an entrance fee of 25 pesos per head.<br /><br />Alibuhod Beach is pretty decent. Nothing to wow for but sand is white so that is good enough. water is clean but not the clearest one can find. With so many amazing beaching in the Philippines, this would fall on the average category. Good enough though. We didn't swim here becuase it was already almost lunchtime when we arrived so we decided to go straight to island hopping instead.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42556000194/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_113530"><img alt="1-20180316_113530" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/915/42556000194_f76ff23f8b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42557727864/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_115516"><img alt="1-20180316_115516" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/926/42557727864_f171b48656_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><b style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot;, courier, monospace; font-size: x-large;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274408761/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_111732"><img alt="1-20180316_111732" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1766/43274408761_9f53c9b364_z.jpg" width="640" /></a></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42556004754/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_115417"><img alt="1-20180316_115417" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/925/42556004754_012dcd2d37_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42370254705/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_115428"><img alt="1-20180316_115428" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1806/42370254705_a74350c31a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></b></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Island Hopping Nueva Valencia</b></span><br /><br />The only way to do island hopping is to rent a boat chartered by an association within&nbsp; Alibuhod Beach. Don't even think of finding a fishing boat that you can rent at a cheaper price because all boats here are commercial and outsider boats are not allowed. There is a small outpost by the middle of the beach and standard rates are published here.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Island Hopping Rates</span></b><br />The announcement goes:starting October 21, 2017, passage rate will be Php 600 (1st hour)&nbsp; for 6-8 pax and 200 pesos for every succeeding hour.<br /><br />That works like a taxi with a flag down rate of 600 pesos. If you are 8 pax max that is already very economical though. There were only the two of us so it was a bit more pricey but still worth it. We spent three hours on top of the 1st hour so we paid Php1,200.00 plus tip which is not mandatory.&nbsp; The thing I like though is they got big boats, so without the hassle of feeling cramped in a small vehicle, we were able to do our island hopping in a relaxed way. Plus, since we had the boat all for ourselves, there was no pressure to rush.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41466996190/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_120614"><img alt="1-20180316_120614" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1801/41466996190_ac00c0c565_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41464873340/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_120246"><img alt="1-20180316_120246" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1805/41464873340_e72130661e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42370125255/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_121003"><img alt="1-20180316_121003" height="481" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1801/42370125255_0f760d7838_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274416811/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_121007"><img alt="1-20180316_121007" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/921/43274416811_3ec74d62c6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Island Hopping Options</span></b><br /><br />Turtle Island<br />Baras Cave<br />Ave Maria Beach<br />Lamurawan Island<br />Fairy Castle<br />Clif Diving<br /><br />To be honest, there is nothing to wow for in all the destinations listed. It was just a typical day tour island hopping but I find it a welcome respite away from the city. And guess what, we actually enjoyed it. Perhaps because we were the only tourists in the spots we visited so there is this nice not so crowded, exclusive feels to it.<br /><br />A few disappointments, the turtles in Turtle Island are long gone so they now call it NO-Turtle Island. lols. Also, Ave Maria Beach is reduced to a small spot of sand with a rock in the middle thanks to a strong typhoon that hit the area a year or so ago so the sands in once sprawling beach have been washed away. So don't believe the photos in the brochure back in Alibuod beach. Di na sya ganun kaganda. So we opted to do swimming in Turtle Island instead where we docked in a tiny tiny cove with sandy white beach and a small cave that leads to the sea. We enjoyed crawling through this passage back and forth.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274414411/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_124549"><img alt="1-20180316_124549" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/838/43274414411_58bc1e071f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42555949494/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_125958"><img alt="1-20180316_125958" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1768/42555949494_da54fcbef6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Baras Cave</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">One of the surprises of the tour was Baras cave. A small cave not brought about by freshwater eating into rock minerals but by the constant battering of the waves. I said small because it is a short cave barely two ot three full-size boats in length but wide and high enough for our big boat to get in. It was not so scary at all because there is another opening on the other side. What makes it beautiful is the the lights coming from two openings project a magical lighting to the rocks inside. Since our boat could squeeze in and dock into a rock plate inside, we were able to step out of the boat and take photos. I love my silhouette photo taken here.</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274419711/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_130243"><img alt="1-20180316_130243" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/842/43274419711_164428a0f9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41464688660/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_131148"><img alt="1-20180316_131148" height="475" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1768/41464688660_216ded5192_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Lamurawan Island</span></b></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">Then there's Lamurawan Island. A small abandoned island with a grotto on top that serves as a scenic vista point on the surrounding islands and mainland Guimaras. Again, the perks of being the only ones here was that we were able to take our time climbing up and snapping tons of photos while at the same time enjoying the view. The sea was so calm and the sky was clear. It was a perfect day to go up and sweat amidst the scorching sun.&nbsp;</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43225308892/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_134358"><img alt="1-20180316_134358" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1770/43225308892_547bd2decb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><br /><br /><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Cliff Jump Floating Cottage</span></b><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">We originally thought of this tour of Guimaras to be quick, specifically the island hopping part. We were ready to head back home after Lamurawan Island but our boatman proposed cliff jumping. I am not into cliff jumping and actually oppose it specially in rivers but my partner loves it so we gave it a go. Our boatman said it is a different kind of cliff jumping and he is actually right.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">So there is this floating cottage ( big cottage) where they put up tarzan jump and a bampo port where you can climb up and jump. Brilliant! So you don't have to bother climbing a cliff and jump off. Here, you can effortless climb and jump and repeat. I figured out later that a couple of locations in the Philippines have this kind of floating cottage for such recreation. So is this going to be the trend?</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I enjoyed the tarzan jump and did it several times despite the scare of dropping in what I am aware of as deep water. Deep I know because the water is dark and one could not make sense of how deep it is. It helps that seawater is more buoyant than freshwater. The cliff jump ( the one where you climb the bamboo stairs) I failed to do. It looks low on photo but when you are up there it feels like jumping from a two-storey house. I am scared of heights so I only climb up for the photo opt. lol</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43225606212/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_141622"><img alt="1-20180316_141622" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/834/43225606212_6ffb064e51_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Mangoes Anyone?</span></b><br /><br />One of the regrets of this tour is that we didn't even bother to stop by one of the many stalls by the road along the way back and forth Nueva Valenncia to sample Guimaras mango. I don't know. I guess both of us were not in the mood to buy fresh mangoes to carry back at the hotel. Sayang di nasample-an. Although, we grabbed a couple of dried mangoes and other delicacies in the Pasalubong Center by the port. There are so many goodies to choose from. They even have mango piyaya. Anything they could make out of mangoes. With the dried mangoes, I could tell that Guimaras mango is actually not the very sweet one I am very familiar with growing up as a boy in Pangasinan where our former house was surrounded by mango trees that I climb every summer to pick fresh fruits and have them ripen back home. I actually though Cebu mango is better. Very sweet with no pungent taste.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274485171/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_153421"><img alt="1-20180316_153421" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/846/43274485171_2f0ba58f4e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274489861/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_153504"><img alt="1-20180316_153504" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1765/43274489861_01bb9aa00e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274489201/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_153716"><img alt="1-20180316_153716" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1782/43274489201_fca8768910_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/43274490641/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_153431"><img alt="1-20180316_153431" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1764/43274490641_0a614cbc49_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">YOU MIGHT ALSO WANNA READ:</span></b><br /><b><br /></b> <b>DAMIRES HILLS</b><br /><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/damires-hills-tierra-verde-farm-resort.html">http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/damires-hills-tierra-verde-farm-resort.html</a><br /><b>CHURCHHOPPING ILOILO</b><br /><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/06/church-hopping-iloilo-miagao-church.html">http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/06/church-hopping-iloilo-miagao-church.html</a><br /><b>RICHMONDE HOTEL ILOILO</b><br /><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/richmonde-hotel-iloilo-large-room-cuts.html">http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/richmonde-hotel-iloilo-large-room-cuts.html</a><br /><b>URBAN SANDS ILOILO</b><br /><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/urban-sands-iloilo-where-small-hotel.html">http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/urban-sands-iloilo-where-small-hotel.html</a></div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-68376443752983398962018-06-18T20:55:00.001+08:002018-07-08T22:42:30.950+08:00Church Hopping Iloilo : MiagAo Church Disappoints but Tigbauan, Jaro and Molo Churches More than Compensates for it<br>Like any other travel blogger, I had my share of blogging about Philippines churches especially when I was just starting, after all, there is no shortage of heritage/old/grand churches in the country. It is an easy material for newbie writers. And then at some point, I have grown tired of it. For one, because everybody writes about it, so what&#39;s new? And then there is this feeling na &quot;pare-pareho nalang&quot;. Who was it who said &quot;churches are all the same, enter one and you have seen all of them&quot;.?<br><br>But the churches of Iloilo ( both the city and the province) are on a different level. They capture your attention and entice your imagination. It is not just individual churches that are good but if you think of them collectively as well, you cannot help but marvel at the strong lineup. People here love their churches, and it shows at how elaborate they have created them and how much they care for them for future generations.<br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28804603308" nbsp="" title="Molo Church"><img alt="Molo Church" height="480" src="https://farm2.staticflickr.com/1727/28804603308_b504852972_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><br><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br>#ChurchHoppingIloilo.<br>#MiagaoChurch<br><br><br>An hour ride from Iloilo. The 1st Baroque-style church I have seen. Yes, haven&#39;t been to Paoay Church kahit nakapag Pagudpud nako years back. So worth the trip down South from the city. Seeing it up close, I got to admire the intricate design of this church&#39;s facade. Don&#39;t expect too much on the interior though <i>kasi kung ganu ka engrande ang harap ganun naman ka plain and simple ng loob. </i>I heard Paoay Church is of similar predicament. Normal for Baroque-style churches? Could be. Still, worth the trip.<br><br><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/06/church-hopping-iloilo-miagao-church.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-25847319775739423742018-05-15T18:42:00.000+08:002018-07-12T19:36:06.821+08:00U.S.O Bar and Restaurant MakatiLocated in a quiet neighborhood at the corner of Taguig and Obrero streets in Makati City is U.S.O Bar and Restaurant. U.S.O stands for Under Starter's Orders and in English translates to"trendy". Although it might not be the trendiest one can find in Makati where competition among restobars is fierce, there is something about USO that makes people keep coming back.<br /><br />A non-pretentious mid-size restobar with black-dominated interior enough to command class but simple enough not to be intimidating. Here, what you see is what you get -- not one of those high-end pubs with classy interior that will rip you off because you pay for whatever is added for the visuals. This is where you wanna hang out to chill and not worry about going home broke.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206002167/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="USO_Bar_Makati"><img alt="USO_Bar_Makati" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/944/27206002167_e7d90a0cdf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/42075877131/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="USO_Makati_Bar"><img alt="USO_Makati_Bar" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/968/42075877131_2af824bce4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206004417/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_214404"><img alt="1-20180512_214404" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/946/27206004417_c7cb9c1b62_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><br /></div><div>Their beer is the standard price in most pubs, say 330 pesos per bucket of 6 local beers with your choice of "pulutan". Beer tower is only at 300php.<br /><br />I is the food that I was surprised at. Most pubs fail on this aspect. The "and restaurant" on the name is well deserved as one can enjoy a variety of dishes, not just side orders for drinking.&nbsp;Best off all, they are very affordable. Imagine, their nachos is priced at 120 pesos and it is full of ingredients. So much that we requested more nacho chips to finish it off. And very tasty too. I was with a friend who is a big fan of nachos and one who you can ask where in the Metro one can find the best nachos and this one he approved. Cilantro definitely has the best anywhere but their nachos at USO Bar and Restaurant can give Cilantro a run for the money.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206011557/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_220545"><img alt="1-20180512_220545" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/947/27206011557_cbd97ec43b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206009777" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_220619"><img alt="1-20180512_220619" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/981/27206009777_0a76136f55_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: left;">Another friend is a big fan of buffalo wings so we tried that one too. It comes on a big platter which includes fried calamares, french fries, and a huge serving of crispy pata. The buffalo wings is a labor of love. It is full of flavor that goes deep into the meat and not just sauce on the surface like one can find in many copycat buffalo wings stores out there. Believe me there are so many and many fail the taste test. Make sure you remind the waiter though on the intensity of spice you want it to be. Ours was sweet and my friend said it would have been better spicy as he loves his buffalo wings extra, extra spicy but this one definitely satisfied our cravings. An easy best-seller for USO.<br /><br />Not to discount is crispy pata. I am normally not a big fan of crispy pata but this one proved to be an exemption. Crispy, deep fried to perfection. I have to comment the dips they prepared as well, one of the best I tried in any pubs and they certainly complimented both the crispy pata and the calamares. Find out for yourself what I am talking about. At the moment, this platter is not on offer yet but they will soon have it launched. For now, one can ask for separate orders of buffalo wings and crispy pata. You can never go wrong.<br /><br />U.S.O Bar and Restaurant Makati opens at 10:00 am and they offer frappes too. They are also very proud of these I heard. Looking forward to trying em out next visit.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41356592184" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_221921"><img alt="1-20180512_221921" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/962/41356592184_c1a5c30330_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206008137" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_204929"><img alt="1-20180512_204929" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/907/27206008137_82b3670330_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206030037" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_221834"><img alt="1-20180512_221834" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/944/27206030037_95ab6a625f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206032527" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_225125"><img alt="1-20180512_225125" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/962/27206032527_e7f7e6ab1a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">One of the new owners of USO is a friend of mine. We went to the same high school in Pangasinan. We have not seen each other since finishing high school ( and God knows how long it has been) but we have kept contact on Facebook. She hasn't change a bit. Still warm and sincere as ever. She also knows how straightforward I am and nothing changed so when she invited me to check the place she knows I will be coming with my biases and honest opinion. I say they run the place well.&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I am so satisfied with the experience. It's so heartwarming to see each other again. The whole night I I was in the restobar, I was silently admiring&nbsp;her for how she treats her staff and customers. On how hands on she is with the job and how much she has embedded herself with the local community. It is important to note that USO is located in a predominantly residential area and how you connect with the people in the area really matters. I saw how&nbsp; she is being respected no just by her staff but with the regular patrons of the pub. This spells the difference. Being here is like being in a warm, friendly place and once inside, you will surely stay for hours.</div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40268394080" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_235034"><img alt="1-20180512_235034" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/953/40268394080_f9436b6709_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40268399290" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_205503"><img alt="1-20180512_205503" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/911/40268399290_360f52f735_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27206005817" nbsp="" title="1-20180512_222537"><img alt="1-20180512_222537" height="456" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/948/27206005817_d14f042f5b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">And I don't wanna finish this post without commending the live entertainment they have on select days. We came on a Saturday night and we were so entertained&nbsp; by their two talented regular singers&nbsp; --- Stacey and Cathy. Not only that they can sing well, they are so funny! I actually though we were in a comedy bar. Cathy has a way of twisting song lyrics to make it sound naughty but in a funny and non-offensive way. Puro ako tawa that night. I managed to record a few videos. Feel free to watch and enjoy!<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/QE86RZ2L1eM" width="650"></iframe><br /><iframe allow="autoplay; encrypted-media" allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="450" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/dxz40leZo-Y" width="650"></iframe></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div></div><br /><br /><b>CONTACT&nbsp;&nbsp;U.S.O Bar and Restaurant Makati</b><br />Call 0921 955 2688<br />Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/USOBAR/">https://www.facebook.com/USOBAR/</a><br />Location map &gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="https://www.google.com/maps/search/uso+bar+and+restaurant+makati/@14.5706357,121.0225324,19z">here&nbsp;</a><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40272408860" nbsp="" title="Under Starter's Order Bar and Restaurant"><img alt="Under Starter's Order Bar and Restaurant" height="426" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/943/40272408860_a91bdcf0f4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40268395760" nbsp="" title="1-20180513_001446"><img alt="1-20180513_001446" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/981/40268395760_b4fb0ddfba_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">We enjoyed our time at U.S.O Bar and Restaurant Makati and I am sure you will too. It might not be the trendiest restobar in Makati but it's warmth well compensates for it. Homey is a term I normally use on my hotel reviews but that description also fits USO restobar. Still, better not take my word for it, better give it a go yourself.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">__________________________</div></div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-37795342853451433552018-04-13T22:22:00.000+08:002018-07-09T21:22:03.545+08:00Damires Hills Tierra Verde Farm Resort: Commune with Nature, Indulge in Adventure<br><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;">We were having a great time in Iloilo City that at some point I questioned my decision to move North to Janiuay on our 3rd day. This is actually a little sketchy, Tripadvisor, the world&#39;s most popular travel review site ranks Damires Hills Resort #4 among B&amp;B in Iloilo city, but Damires Hills is located 45 minutes from Iloilo City and already within the municipality of Janiuay. If you know how far the airport is from downtown, Janiuay is 2x farther North.<br><br></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br></div><div style="text-align: left;">But getting here was a breezy 45 minutes. In a large city, 45 minutes could be hellish but here, it hardly felt like 45 minutes at all. Thanks to the good central terminals in Iloilo city and good flow of traffic in and out of the city. Last thing we know, we were already at the cozy lobby of Damires Hills.</div><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26485416517/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180317_173727"><img alt="1-20180317_173727" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/803/26485416517_0d593b869b_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41313638842" nbsp="" title="Damires Hills Tierra Verde Farm Resort_1"><img alt="Damires Hills Tierra Verde Farm Resort_1" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/901/41313638842_340c3bee64_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40460853115" nbsp="" title="1-20180317_171028"><img alt="1-20180317_171028" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/820/40460853115_1511f7b72c_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41313084662" nbsp="" title="1-20180317_170422"><img alt="1-20180317_170422" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/865/41313084662_789efa0335_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40460850405" nbsp="" title="1-20180317_170235"><img alt="1-20180317_170235" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/878/40460850405_93d57f15d0_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>About Damires Hills </b></span><br><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Tierra Verde Farm Resort</b></span><br>Nothing much could be found online in terms of information about this resort as their official website <a href="http://www.damireshills.com/">www.damireshills.com</a> seems to be broken.<br><br>What we found out during our stay is that this is a huge property, if I can remember, 72 hectares. And it used to be the retreat house of the owners to escape the city on weekends and holidays until they finally decided to develop the property so that others could also enjoy its beauty.<br><b></b><br><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/damires-hills-tierra-verde-farm-resort.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-68309651249429397812018-04-12T21:05:00.000+08:002018-07-10T23:17:19.456+08:00K-Pop Stars Visit Pyongyang and the Expectations from This Cross-Border Journey<br>The beginning of April is off to quite a start, already witnessing a “not-so-usual” cross-border visit. A few of South Korea’s famous K-pop singers have traveled all the way to Pyongyang for a special performance, along with concert staff, taekwondo demonstrators, reporters and government officials. So, what makes this journey special? <br><br>Unlike normal cross-border traveling by pop stars with itineraries primarily including concerts and <a href="http://www.clicktraveltips.com/recreational-activities-honeymoon-resorts/">recreational activities at fancy resorts</a>, this latest trip was part of a mission. It was much more than recreational. Indeed, it was a visit intended to normalize the relationship between the two Koreas. <br><br><div style="text-align: left;">It is a proven fact that to normalize a relationship between any two entities, be it two countries or two states, person-to-person trust must be established first. And what better way to establish person-to-person relations than a shared <a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2013/03/panagbenga-festivalcolorful-but-lacks.html">cultural exchange</a>. The concert, titled Spring is Coming, was organized to do that. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/photographingtravis/16265090014" nbsp="" title="K-POP"><img alt="K-POP" height="480" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8727/16265090014_252111c1c6_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><i> “<a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/photographingtravis/16265090014">K-POP</a>” by <a href="https://www.flickr.com/people/photographingtravis/">Travis Wise</a> is licensed under <a href="https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/2.0">CC BY 2.0</a></i> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div>The concert featuring the K-pop girl band Red Velvet and a few other influential artists like Cho Yong-pil was held at the East Pyongyang Grand Theatre. Incidentally, it was Cho who held the last concert by a South Korean artist in the north before this performance, which was a <a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2012/07/nicki-minaj-pink-friday-manila-concert.html">solo concert</a> in Pyongyang, more than a decade back, in 2005. Another concert, providing an opportunity for artists from both the North and the South to perform together was arranged at the Ryukyung Chung Ju-yung gymnasium. These concerts and other cultural exchanges were organized with an expectation to warm the air before the much-awaited April 27 summit.<br><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/k-pop-stars-visit-pyongyang-and.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-75021370800761212102018-04-07T19:20:00.000+08:002018-07-11T00:03:53.524+08:00Richmonde Hotel Iloilo: Large Room Cuts, A Pool to Envy and A Restaurant with Lots of Wow Food Finds<div><i>&quot;What do we do in Iloilo for 6 days?</i>&quot; , asked my partner after I accidentally booked return tickets without noticing that it is indeed too long for a supposed pre-summer quick getaway. &quot; <i>Then we just chill around, not rush into going here and there and not stuffing our itinerary of things to do and see&quot; </i>I said. Maybe it&#39;s a sign of old age but I am already tired of the amazing-race-style travel. I think you get to know and feel the place for real if you tune with the pace of locals.<br><i><br></i> <i>&quot;Don&#39;t worry, I found some nice hotels to try&quot;</i> , I assured him. Of course he didn&#39;t completely take my word for it. But day one proved to be so good and on day two, we transferred to Richmonde Hotel and the trip got even more exciting.<br><br>Iloilo City is in an economic boom and with it is the onslought of both leisure and business travelers. I was here in 2013 and I see the big progress. Back then, Iloilo was &quot;ok but nothing much to see&quot;. Now, you can stay for 1 week and you you will find out that there is more to try.<br><div style="text-align: center;"><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40254724345/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="Richmonde_Hotel_Iloilo"><img alt="Richmonde_Hotel_Iloilo" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/783/40254724345_0230790ee8_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26311773427/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180317_115249"><img alt="1-20180317_115249" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/866/26311773427_83340425d3_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><br><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">ABOUT RICHMONDE HOTEL ILOILO</span></b><br><a href="https://www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph/">https://www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph</a></div>Tel. No.: (63 33) 328-7888<br>Email: rhi@richmondehotel.com.ph<br><div><br>Located within the expanse of Iloilo City’s newest township development is Richmonde Hotel Iloilo. Its prestigious address, Iloilo Business Park, is a budding economic district consisting of important corporate offices, modern residential area, and a stylish shopping and entertainment complex.<br><br>Complementing the Iloilo City’s progress is its rich cultural heritage, colorful festivals, exceptional cuisine, and natural wonders, creating a remarkable balance of old and new, making the Philippines’ “City of Love” a popular destination in Western Visayas. <i><a href="https://www.richmondehoteliloilo.com.ph/?gclid=Cj0KCQjwy9LVBRDOARIsAGqoVnvkTHMgLjREhRf81UUdyQTmNjVJ2upZUpmov6tJYO_fcYxWPaEl02AaAhklEALw_wcB">Source</a></i><br></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/richmonde-hotel-iloilo-large-room-cuts.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-5483473576365974342018-04-01T08:56:00.000+08:002018-04-12T20:34:16.303+08:00Keep Your Iron Level Up While Traveling<br>These days more and more people dine out so ensuring <a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2013/11/lolo-nonoys-our-favorite-restaurant-in.html">food quality</a> has become a priority for not only the restaurants, banquets but also at homes during small parties. Not only tasty but foods rich in vitamins and minerals must be served to people. <br><br>One of the most important components of our food should be an intake of iron. Iron is in the blood majorly as hemoglobin. It is very vital for survival and <a href="https://www.fabhow.com/how-to-treat-anemia.html">its deficiency leads to deadly anemia</a>. <br><br>Iron is essential for the human body. It is one of the top six nutrients, which are required for the sustenance of human body. Iron content becomes vital for pregnant women, who produce more red blood cells to supply the growing fetus with oxygen and nourishment.<br><div><br></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26277885647/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_191214"><img alt="1-20180316_191214" height="375" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/790/26277885647_9407e2e5ae.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><br>Deficiency: <br>Deficiency of Iron has become a common phenomenon in the United States. As per findings, of The World Health Organization (WHO), 1.62 billion people suffer from iron deficiency. Excessive loss of blood takes place in the deficiency of iron and the cells are not able to repair them. <br><br>Symptoms: <br>Sore throat, anemia, fatigue, pale skin, shortness of breath are major symptoms of iron deficiency. <br><br>Caution: <br>It is advisable not to take an overdose of iron as it leads to acute diarrhea, stomach pain and severe vomiting. <br><br>Here is a list of 7 most essential foods containing Iron. While traveling you can order dishes which include these ingredients to keep your iron level up:<br></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/04/keep-your-iron-level-up-while-traveling.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-33496699803924727702018-03-31T14:34:00.000+08:002018-07-11T00:04:35.257+08:00URBAN SANDS Iloilo: Where Small Hotel Means Warm, Intimate and Big On ServiceThere is nothing grand about this hotel. It is small and has only 12 rooms. But TripAdvisor ranks it at #1 among Hotels in Iloilo ( as of writing) and we found out why. Tripadvisor is not lying. This hotel punches way abovie its weight and truly deserving of the accolade. And we are glad we got to experience staying here during our recent Iloilo- Guimaras trip.<br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40355930914/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180316_083803"><img alt="1-20180316_083803" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/897/40355930914_541e305933_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/41064918811/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180315_164028"><img alt="1-20180315_164028" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/786/41064918811_cb273e6044_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26193972997/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180315_115247"><img alt="1-20180315_115247" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/808/26193972997_b732eec89f_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br><br><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">ABOUT URBAN SANDS</span></b><br>Where your stay in the city brings you closer to the shore.<br><i>&quot;Urban Sands is a concierge-type hotel dedicated to giving guests everything that they could ask for in a hotel. Urban Sands reflects a coastal feel with a sizzle of tranquillity and rejuvenation, and yet, it is still proximate to metropolitan Iloilo. </i></div><div><i><br></i></div><div><i>Located in M.H. del Pilar Street in Molo, Iloilo City, this paradise is one ride away from restaurants, shopping malls, grocery stores, and other essential structures in the city. Enter a threshold into another world – of peace, calm, and serenity, disparate from the features of the city.&quot; - <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pg/UrbanSandsHotel/about/?ref=page_internal">source</a></i><br></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/urban-sands-iloilo-where-small-hotel.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-54437118104757627182018-03-28T12:46:00.002+08:002018-07-10T23:43:51.778+08:0010 Reasons Why We Keep Coming Back to Ten Cents To Heaven Leisure CampIf there is one place we keep coming back to in Tanay Rizal, it&#39;s <b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Ten Cents to Heaven</span></b>. We were here before it officially opened in 2013, again in 2015 when they opened the zipline section which was at that time one of the longest in Luzon and again last month. It is interesting how we witnessed how the place has transformed from an accommodation by the hills to escape the chaos of the city into a leisure camp complete with facilities for recreation and team building activities. Each time we come back, there is always something new to experience. And that is the beauty of this place. It keeps evolving and surprising even the frequent patrons. No wonder we keep coming back.<br><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40915284152/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180311_155850"><img alt="1-20180311_155850" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/814/40915284152_e7c503f84b_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center; text-indent: 0px;"><div style="margin: 0px;"><div style="text-align: left;">This was actually by request of Angel, my wife&#39;s youngest sister as a treat for her birthday. Along with her and wifey, we also brought our niece, Jhanine, with us and it was another weekend bonding filled with fun and excitement. Not only the kids enjoyed it but we adults similarly had a great time. This place will make everyone of all ages fall in love. Here are the <b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">10 Reasons Why We Keep Coming Back to Ten Cents To Heaven Leisure Camp.</span></b><br></div></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/10-reasons-why-we-keep-coming-back-to_28.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-17474181996706592292018-03-22T09:20:00.000+08:002018-07-11T00:07:35.051+08:00Lub d Makati: The Lub d Hostel Brand Known the World Over has Arrived in the Philippines! @Lub_d<br><b>HOT NEWS:</b> Lub d Phuket was awarded <a href="https://amp.theguardian.com/travel/2017/jan/24/worlds-best-hostel-awards-hostelworld-hoscars-lisbon">BEST NEW HOSTEL 2017</a> by Hoscar Awards.<br><br>So I guess you can understand the excitement that the news &quot;Lub d has expanded in the Philippines&quot; has stirred in me. Finally, my wish of &quot; I hope we have a <i>world class </i>hostel in the Phillippines&quot; came true! Not only that they brought all the goodness that is Lub d, they have created the largest hostel in the Philippines --<i>and no doubt One of the Best</i>.<br><br>I have been to Bangkok on two separate occasions and in both trips stayed at a<br>Lub d hostel -- 2013 ( Lub d Silom) and 2017 ( Lub d Siam). I instantly fell in love with Lub d Silom&#39;s hip, trendy and modern lobby and very comfortable rooms. Thus we tried Lub d Siam last year which I find more accessible thanks to being literally next to a BTS Skytrain station. Both are what one can wish for in a hostel.<br><br><b>Read:</b><br>- <a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/11/lub-d-bangkok-siam-square.html">Lub D Bangkok Siam Square: The Most Accessible Modern Hostel in Bangkok</a><br>- <a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2013/09/fall-in-love-with-lub-d-bangkok-silom.html">Fall in Love with LUB d BANGKOK Silom </a><br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38975644660/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="LubDMakati_Hostel"><img alt="LubDMakati_Hostel" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4772/38975644660_18c004b0f0_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40879270872/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180310_140055"><img alt="1-20180310_140055" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/799/40879270872_0b39ea096f_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40921237121/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180310_123456"><img alt="1-20180310_123456" height="480" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/822/40921237121_088fbf735b_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39891098945" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9840"><img alt="1-GOPR9840" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4792/39891098945_48933c799a_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br> <br><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Large Lobby with Co-Working Space</b></span><br>Cheers to the Lub d hostel with the largest lobby which covers the whole 2nd level of a 12-storey building. Other than reception, at the lobby is the cafe, a recreational area with billiards table, video game machines and the foosball table we enjoyed playing.<br><br>Another section is a co-working space managed and operated independently by Garage Society. So they get their own clients and bring them here. I find it really interesting that a hostel in the Philippines has a dedicated co-working space. With this kind of cool lobby space Lub d Makati can provide, working here will not feel like working at all.<br></div></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/03/lub-d-hostel-makati-lub-d-brand-known.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-74429151166744519962018-03-08T14:07:00.000+08:002018-08-05T03:54:12.252+08:00PILILLA WIND FARM: How to Get There + What to Expect #PilillaWindmills #Rizal<div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><b>UPDATED</b>: <u> February 27, 2018</u><br><br>Why go as far as Bangui if there is already a wind farm in Pililla Rizal? Yes, the same company which operates Bangui Windmills in Ilocos Norte is constructing a wind farm in Rizal and it is not yet operational but one can already see the completed towers up close. This post will tell you how.<br><br>Pililla Windmills in Rizal are on top of the hills overlooking the beautiful plains of Tanay Rizal on one side and Laguna on the other. Of course you also get a very good view of Laguna de Bay. This is a welcome development in terms of renewable energy and a sure boost for local tourism in Rizal Province.<br><div style="text-align: center;"><i><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26584245608" nbsp="" title="1-20171029_162031"><img alt="1-20171029_162031" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4665/26584245608_2cf10811c0_z.jpg" width="640"></a></i></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>Pililla Windmills in Pililla Rizal</i><br><i><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></i><br><i><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26584248688" nbsp="" title="1-20171029_161525_010_01"><img alt="1-20171029_161525_010_01" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4664/26584248688_a5372eb645_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></i><br><i><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></i><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/16761562625" nbsp="" title="PilillaWindmills"><img alt="PilillaWindmills" height="424" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7649/16761562625_ae69c72acd_z.jpg" width="640"></a><br><i><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></i></div><br>I actually noticed about this while driving through the highest section of my village in Binangonan Rizal. I immediately googled it and to my surprise, nobody has blogged about it.<br><br><br><b><u><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Quick Facts:</span></u></b><br><br><b>Operator: </b>Alternergy Wind One Corp<br><b>Location:</b> Brgy. Halayhayin, Pililla, Rizal<br><b># of Wind Turbines:</b> 27 towers (on full operation)<br><b>Type:</b> Renewable energy<br><b>Energy Production:</b> 54-megawatts<br><b>Expected Start of Operations: </b>mid 2015.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40455144601" nbsp="" title="1-20171029_160739"><img alt="1-20171029_160739" height="489" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4743/40455144601_c83ff25cf9_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><br><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>How To Get To </b></span><br><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Pililla Wind Farm/ Pililla Windmills.</b></span><br><br><b><u>via Private Transportation</u></b><br><br>1. Get to Tanay Town<br><div>2. Go up Brgy. Sampaloc in upper Tanay<br></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2015/03/pililla-wind-farm-how-to-get-there-what.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com48tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-35298987288801169022018-02-26T21:03:00.000+08:002018-07-11T23:24:17.473+08:00The Suites at Pontefino Hotel Batangas: The Old and New Batangas Encapsulated in One Premier Environment @PontefinoHotel<br />I first learned about The Suites at Pontefino from a friend's Instagram posting which really caught my attention so I immediately asked him about it. I was in search for a hotel where we can celebrate my wife's birthday that is away from the Metro but not too far. Batangas City is the perfect spot since it is a comfortable three-hour commute from Manila.<br /><br />Actually, I already heard of Pontefino Hotel a few years back and was keen on trying it but never had the chance. Learning that they have a new section that is The Suites renewed my excitement to the place.<br /><br />I was surprised that Pontefino Hotels itself has been around since 2004. That's 14 years in the hotel business which means lots of experience and quite a history. The property is near SM Batangas but in the quieter side of the city which is perfect for those who want a place to unwind, a place where you know that you are in the city but with a country feels. The property has actually evolved with the residences section in place, thus, Pontefino Hotels and Residences.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25465055167" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_085406"><img alt="1-20180211_085406" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4662/25465055167_1abd295cb1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527394680" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_084812"><img alt="1-20180211_084812" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4666/38527394680_645812c930_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39439366595" nbsp="" title="1-G0219522"><img alt="1-G0219522" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4746/39439366595_93cf0588d5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40336793421" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9288"><img alt="1-GOPR9288" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4724/40336793421_e397178cc7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>About Pontefino Hotel</b></span><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>and Resideences</b></span></div><div><a href="http://pontefinohotel.com/">http://pontefinohotel.com</a></div><div><br />The 60 room deluxe Pontefino Hotel and Residences will greet visitors with its fully furnished units offering a unique combination of hotel-like facilities and amenities, modern home conveniences and a 24-hour guest services and security—all under one premier environment.</div><div><br /></div>“Batangas City is important to our portfolio because of its expanding role in the province,” says Ricky Gutierrez, President and Chief Executive Officer. “The addition of Pontefino Residences and Pontefino Prime provides a new opportunity for a new class of premiere ownership—one that appreciates Pontefino’s contemporary, innovative expression of luxury living,” adds Ricky.<br /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40336806771" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9318"><img alt="1-GOPR9318" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4673/40336806771_8371d826e3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625650954" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_084959"><img alt="1-20180211_084959" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4622/39625650954_ce5a27e095_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25465057757" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_085235"><img alt="1-20180211_085235" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4753/25465057757_dfa49535b7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25465056697" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_085303"><img alt="1-20180211_085303" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4761/25465056697_76c7e53bfd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465256008" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_145812-001"><img alt="1-20180211_145812-001" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4605/26465256008_79950661b2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527680020" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9324"><img alt="1-GOPR9324" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4622/38527680020_27c319eef7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39744988464" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_144552"><img alt="1-20180210_144552" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4698/39744988464_6a10b60a45_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25464666357" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_141601"><img alt="1-20180210_141601" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4713/25464666357_12f62876da_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><br /></div><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Contemporary, Innovative Expression&nbsp;</span></b></div><div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">of Luxury Living</span></b><br /><b><u>Executive Suite</u></b><br /><br />With the suites as a new addition to the wide-ranging accommodations at Ponetfino, there are more options depending on your group size or purpose of staying here. We stayed in an executive suites which is indeed modern luxury uncompromised. A harmony of contemporary design and timeless comfort, perfect for executive travelers seeking a premium stay in the heart of Batangas. It has one bedroom and a separate living room area that is spacious.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465264368" nbsp="" title="1-G0029325"><img alt="1-G0029325" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4613/26465264368_3066dc5cb7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">It is equipped with all the modern conveniences one can ask for. Big refrigerator, microwave oven, stove and two flat-screen televisions in both the living room and bedroom areas. I love the big sofa by the living room and the dining table that could hold up to 4 diners. If there is one thing that is lacking though, there are no basic utensils in the room and those you have to request to housekeeping which I think is a bit inconvenient especially because there is no intercom or phone installed in each units yet. I heard they are working on the latter as the suites are still newly opened but I hope they can provide basic utensils in the room.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625817314" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9215"><img alt="1-GOPR9215" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4696/39625817314_fca90478d6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40291737812" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9238"><img alt="1-GOPR9238" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4677/40291737812_abab9b6fd3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26464740428" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_135446"><img alt="1-20180210_135446" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4752/26464740428_39ed99f78d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465357008" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9226"><img alt="1-GOPR9226" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4711/26465357008_64725fcd72_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39438831165" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_133340"><img alt="1-20180210_133340" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4758/39438831165_3a0ae9e9ed_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;">The closet is huge and I like it the slides are with giant mirrors. Add to the full glass-to-ceiling wall that separates the bedroom to the balcony and you have a feeling of one continuous space. The suite itself is already huge and the glass walls makes it feel much larger. The toilet is love, spotless and spacious. Toilet and shower area are separate, giant mirrors and a bath tub next to huge glass window. Sheets and towels fresh. At night, the room transforms into one romantic space thanks to the effect of strategic lighting and lamp shades.<br /><b><br /></b> <b>DID YOU KNOW</b> that Pontefino Hotel hosted Ms Earth 2017 candidates last year? And those lovely girls stayed at The Suites --the same high-end accommodation we stayed at. Suddenly made me recall staying in the same room where Pia Wurtzbach stayed at in Novotel Manila Araneta Center.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465345028" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9225"><img alt="1-GOPR9225" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4767/26465345028_355fd9325e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527602790" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9228"><img alt="1-GOPR9228" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4709/38527602790_1b7a5125ac_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465362138" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9234"><img alt="1-GOPR9234" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4651/26465362138_87f0503f02_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527612740" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9232"><img alt="1-GOPR9232" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4704/38527612740_ec53974bb7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465360268" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9235"><img alt="1-GOPR9235" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4616/26465360268_353133f738_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Other Room Types at the Suites</span></b><br /><br /><b>1 Bedroom Loft</b><br />A posh and spacious abode reserved for guests with discerning tastes. The 1 bedroom loft offers luxurious comfort and convenience with its own living area, dining area, kitchen, entertainment system, plush queen-size bed, and topped off with a balcony overlooking Pontefino’s lush gardens and swimming pool.<br /><br /><b>2 Bedroom Loft</b><br />The 2 bedroom loft combines comfort, style, and convenience with its own living area, dining area, kitchen, 3 bathrooms, and 2 spacious bedrooms fit for a small family or a group of travelers. Enjoy the view of the hotel’s lush gardens and swimming pool, while staying cozy with flat screen TVs and entertainment systems on both floors.<br /><br /><b>Garden Suite</b><br />They’ve transported the modern comforts of the metro to your stay in Batangas City. The garden suite offers top amenities to suite your convenience, while boasting of a view of our mini garden.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b> <b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Night Shots</span></b><br />Here are some night shots I took around the hotel. At night, the whole area is quite and intimate. Makes for a very relaxing spot if you want to get away from the stresses of city-life.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26465124908/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_213849"><img alt="1-20180210_213849" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4756/26465124908_b565a28c5f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40291560712/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_213746"><img alt="1-20180210_213746" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4632/40291560712_7a931c4f6f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625639974/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_213316"><img alt="1-20180210_213316" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4749/39625639974_a9ecf0c4af_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">The Pools</span></b><br />Batangas City is not a beach city so to compensate for that there are two swimming pools at Pontefino Hotel and we enjoyed swimming in both moving from one pool to another. The pool at The Suites includes one long one when you can enjoy lap swimming while the other is a square one that is spacious enough to accommodate many people without feeling crowded. The thing I like about swimming at the pool of The Suites is the feeling of exclusivity since it is surrounded by three (3) 4-storey modern buildings. Makes a dramatic backdrop for a photo.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625781604" nbsp="" title="1-G0149378"><img alt="1-G0149378" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4678/39625781604_976dfb4769_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625773194" nbsp="" title="1-G0129356"><img alt="1-G0129356" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4612/39625773194_f671417997_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625568454" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_171103"><img alt="1-20180210_171103" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4628/39625568454_e266611ed5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br />We also enjoyed swimming in the main pool next to the main hotel. We transferred here late afternoon when the sun was down in the horizon and its reflection makes for a dramatic effect. Water here is warmer on February season as the pool is exposed to the sun all day long. Thanks to the spacious green lawn next to it, swimming here doesn't feel crowded.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625793244" nbsp="" title="1-G0199456"><img alt="1-G0199456" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4747/39625793244_bd1ee20942_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39439362615" nbsp="" title="1-G0219518"><img alt="1-G0219518" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4621/39439362615_d4cdd27e69_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39439366595" nbsp="" title="1-G0219522"><img alt="1-G0219522" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4746/39439366595_93cf0588d5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39625813834" nbsp="" title="1-G0219535"><img alt="1-G0219535" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4710/39625813834_568294bc81_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25464971737" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_164933"><img alt="1-20180210_164933" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4672/25464971737_a2e12dfcdb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Robusta Restaurant</span></b></div>We had breakfast buffet at Robusta Cafe and Restaurant. We came a bit late so the spread was already a bit depleted. I therefore felt that tue selection is a bit limited. Something I raised to the hotel for to them to look at and enjoy. At any rate, the food is tasty and satisfying. We opted to eat al fresco by the poolside and we enjoyed our food and the nice view. Don't miss their coffee. Batangas after all is well known for its coffee.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527510050" title="1-20180211_094631"><img alt="1-20180211_094631" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4603/38527510050_0f3380432a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script>&nbsp;</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25465053877" title="1-20180211_085533"><img alt="1-20180211_085533" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4745/25465053877_6293d201d0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527512120" title="1-20180211_090747"><img alt="1-20180211_090747" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4607/38527512120_0d44c9d83c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39439296965" title="1-20180211_085826"><img alt="1-20180211_085826" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4608/39439296965_d493737db4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39439303175" title="1-20180211_085741"><img alt="1-20180211_085741" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4624/39439303175_6ef6e720ba_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39439294205" title="1-20180211_090103"><img alt="1-20180211_090103" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4613/39439294205_37ca6773e3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"></span></b></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"></span></b><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br /></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Corporate Clients</span></b></span></b></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">Batangas City is home to many multinational companies engaged in the Power Sector, Pilipias Shell, Jg Summit Petrochemical to name a few and Pontefino Hotel is the easy choice of group accommodation for these industry giants. It is no wonder therefore to find a BPI atm machine at the lobby of the hotel. That for me as an ordinary guest is convenience and reassurance. You should have seen how my face brightened when I saw the machine. Ahahaha<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25464666857" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_141533"><img alt="1-20180210_141533" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4670/25464666857_4c40f6a05f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Other Amenities</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Gym and Events Center</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">For the health conscious, there is a gym next to the pool area. It got lots of equipment for its size so it is sure to satisfy whatever routine you have on your program. You will also enjoy the view while working out thanks to its floor-to-ceiling glass walls.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40291178062" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_141456"><img alt="1-20180210_141456" height="458" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4671/40291178062_ede6d08acc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25464663597" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_141224"><img alt="1-20180210_141224" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4713/25464663597_0d78d51910_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25465312417" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9282"><img alt="1-GOPR9282" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4677/25465312417_9ab3553dd1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40291745122" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR9277"><img alt="1-GOPR9277" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4712/40291745122_690c7360e1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Pontefino Hotel is also the undisputed events venue in Batangas City thanks to its spacious events hall that enabled them to host one of the pre-pagents of Ms Earth 2017. Wedding receptions, birthdays, debuts, anniversary, the events hall is perfect for any life event celebration. There was an event the next day so I was lucky to see it decorated and I say it is one beautiful events hall.</div></div><div><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38527507870" nbsp="" title="1-20180211_095622"><img alt="1-20180211_095622" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4678/38527507870_80afbe27fd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>How To Get To Pontefino Hotel Batangas</b></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">1. From Manila, take South Luzon Expressway (SLEX) all the way Southern Tagalog Arterial Road (STAR) tollway.</div><div style="text-align: left;">2. Take Tambo - Lipa Toll Exit.</div><div style="text-align: left;">3. At the roundabout, take the third exit towards Batangas City proper.</div><div style="text-align: left;">Continue along the National Highway until you see the Lion’s Club statue.</div><div style="text-align: left;">4. Keep going the Hilltop Road then turn left at the first corner.</div><div style="text-align: left;">5. Take another left to P. Herrera Road. You can also follow the SM City Batangas Signage which also leads to Pontefino.</div><div style="text-align: left;">6. At the first corner, turn right going to Gulod Labac and Pontefino Hotel.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40291559072" nbsp="" title="1-20180210_171711"><img alt="1-20180210_171711" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4721/40291559072_a6bec7c45c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /></div><div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Nearby Notable Establishments</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">-Parish of the Most Holy Trinity</div><div style="text-align: left;">Minor Basilica of the Immaculate Conception</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Jesus of Nazareth Hospital</div><div style="text-align: left;">- SM City Batangas</div><div style="text-align: left;">- Stonyhurst Southville International School</div><div style="text-align: left;">- St. Bridget College</div><div style="text-align: left;">- University of Batangas</div><b><br /></b><b>Find Pontefino Hotel Batangas on Social Media</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>for the latest promos and discounts</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><br /></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Facebook -&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/Pontefino-Hotel-and-Residences-521878777881657/">https://www.facebook.com/Pontefino-Hotel-and-Residences</a></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Intagram </b>-&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/hotelpontefino/?hl=en">https://www.instagram.com/hotelpontefino</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Twitter </b>-&nbsp;https://twitter.com/PontefinoHotel</div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>________________</b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Pontefino Hotel and Residences&nbsp;</b></div><div style="text-align: left;">is located at:&nbsp;Pastor Village, Gulod Labac, Batangas City, 4200, Philippines</div><div style="text-align: left;">Tel: +6343 723-3466 Mobile: +639 17 505-4214</div><div style="text-align: left;"><a href="http://www.pontefinohotel.com/">www.pontefinohotel.com</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div></div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-78532136131002286892018-02-08T21:26:00.001+08:002018-08-04T03:47:05.247+08:006 Ways to Do Singapore On a Budget<br />Singapore is a country known for many things – the easiest and friendliest place to do business according to World Bank and other authorities, the business hub of Asia, and many more. For living standards, the island-state has, for the fourth year in a row, ranked number one on the list of the most expensive cities in the world. This gives traveling enthusiasts the feeling that it would almost be difficult to travel to Singapore without breaking the bank. For expatriates or entrepreneurs who have set their mind to relocate to the Lion City, even if for several years, must get their travel documents. This can be hectic at times, which is why you should consider engaging the services of<a href="https://www.one-visa.com/singapore-personalised-employment-pass-service"> One Visa</a>. They are good at helping you obtain documents with great ease and ensure you settle down well in Singapore.<br /><br />So, how can one visit Singapore, or stay there and not spend so much? The following are some things that one may consider to save cash while in the City State.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lesliehui/38552844755/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2018- 2nd Firework"><img alt="Marina Bay Singapore Countdown 2018- 2nd Firework" height="427" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4692/38552844755_3af2171f20_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lesliehui/28133389479/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="MBS Light Show"><img alt="MBS Light Show" height="427" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4658/28133389479_701c393b8f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo by: <i><a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/lesliehui/">Leslie Hui</a>, on Flickr</i></div><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Buy from Supermarkets</span></b><br />You may need to buy a few items from time to time. For instance, though it may be safe to drink tap water, you may have to buy some bottled water. You would do yourself much good if you kept off the large retail malls, the round-the-clock convenience stores, and the costly chain stores such as the NTUC Fairprice Finest and Cold Storage. You could save some dollars if you went shopping at the smaller stores such as Valudollar. The snacks also go for far less in the small marts than in those huge supermarkets.<br /><br /> <span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Visit the Parks</b></span><br />One of the easiest ways in which you can spare some money while on your trip to Singapore would be by skipping tourist attraction sites with entrance charges. Theme parks and museums are often quite expensive, even according to the locals. Instead, visit great areas like Pulau Ubin, one of the few remaining rural places in the Garden City. For movement from one point to another while at Pulau Ubin, walk or hire a bike. Also take with you some cash, as credit cards are not accepted on the island. Also, enjoy some time at Chek Jawa, a wetland that is home to several animals.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Buy Food at the Hawker Centers</b></span><br />When hunger pangs strike, head to the hawker centers in residential areas and you will save some good bucks. Avoid tourists’ and the expensive hawker centers. Changi Village Hawker Centre is known for cheap good food. A meal may cost less than 6 Singaporean dollars.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Walk</b></span><br />While keeping yourself healthy and fit, you will save several dollars if you walk from one bus stop to another or to the nearest Mass Rapid Transport(MRT)-subway system-station. It may not take you not more than 20 minutes to walk from one station to another. The beauty of walking is that there are plenty of shops along the way, that will keep you busy with window shopping and quite entertained.<br /><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Shop in the Cheapest Places</span></b><br />If you intend to save cash, shopping should not be on your to-do list while in Singapore, but if you have to do it, go to the most affordable places. Mustafa Centre, which is a 24-hour shopping place and is located in Little India, is best known for low prices for stocks of over 300,000 great merchandise.<br /><br /><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Be Prudent while Shopping for Liquor</b></span><br />Drinking in Singapore is an expensive affair. You should do without it if you can. But if you must, keep off the pubs and bars. You cannot spend a night in a pub without parting with tons of cash. Go drinking at the local coffee shops, popularly called kopitiams by the <a href="https://one-visa.com/">locals</a>.<br /><br />You cannot go wrong if you buy your liquor to drink at your private place at night. While at it, remember to avoid noise when you get high or you will get in trouble. Drinking is prohibited in all public places between 10.30 pm and 7 am. During this period, retail shops are restricted from selling takeaway alcohol.<br /><br /><br />______________________Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-44849689043873001222018-01-31T19:06:00.000+08:002018-07-11T23:59:17.007+08:00TRYP By Wyndham Mall of Asia: The 1st TRYP Hotel in the Philippines. A Game Changer in the Mid-Range Hotel Category @TRYPMNL<br />I celebrated my 37th birthday in this hotel and I have nothing but very good memories. One can tell because I speak so many good things about this place. I am a Manila resident and a condo dweller at that but I really enjoyed being transported to a different feel staying here.<br /><br />With the arrival of the 1st TRYP By Wyndham Hotel in the Philippines, I say, something fresh has arrived! I say fresh not because the hotel is new but because it offers something different. I speak of not just one key feature here. The cool lobby, the unique rooms, the amazing rooftop pool. Good buffet breakfast, staff always all smile, and the amazing view of Manila Bay sunset thanks to uninterrupted view. The uniqueness it has to offer is an aggregation of different factors all added up to make it truly special. I am so glad to have tried the place even before its grand opening in March.<br /><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050401678/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_002251"><img alt="1-20180122_002251" height="478" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4756/26050401678_43dbfdb342_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051710097" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_090439"><img alt="1-20180122_090439" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4626/25051710097_10a8a9aba1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/40000760811" nbsp="" title="TRYP_Hotel_Mall_of_Asia"><img alt="TRYP_Hotel_Mall_of_Asia" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4612/40000760811_e9428135b2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051344017" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_164046"><img alt="1-20180121_164046" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4602/25051344017_e14e82a097_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024415395" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_174115-001"><img alt="1-20180121_174115-001" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4624/39024415395_1c46966f46_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39890377082" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_174957"><img alt="1-20180121_174957" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4628/39890377082_4244a73470_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><b>Location</b></span></div></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">The success of Microtel by Wyndham Mall of Asia seem to have motivated the group to put up another hotel in the Mall of Asia area, this time, in the Northern section towards the direction of the city of Manila but well within the confines of the Mall of Asia property.&nbsp;</div></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">Bound South and East by apartment residences and offices of similar building height, North by the CCP area known for its sprawling green spaces and West by Manila Bay, TRYP is strategically located to be at a more laidback location away from the noise the city but still within a comfortable ( walking distance) from key shopping (SM Mall of Asia) and dining destinations (SM By The Bay). It is literally connected to One Esplanade which is a to-go-party-place for Manila's affluent urbanites. It is easily accessible and yet in a quiet location. Not to mention, it is less than 6 miles away from the International Airport (NAIA) so you know what convenience that means for your commute.</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26115060768" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_163531"><img alt="1-20180121_163531" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4752/26115060768_617af1a534_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script> </div><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">2nd Floor Lobby</span></b><br /><div><br /></div><div>Only a few hotels in the Philippines have so far adapted a concept where the lobby is NOT at the ground floor, Holiday Inn Makati and Marco Polo Ortigas Manila to name a few, and TRYP is the latest addition to them.</div><div><br /></div>I like lobbies that are not at the ground floor not only because it is a deviation from the usual but because it is perfect for those who prefer it to be more private checking in. You feel more secure and you feel more intimate. And the location makes for a perfect 2nd-floor-lobby because it affords a good view of Manila Bay. Add the wonderful arrangement of furniture, minimalist interior and floor-to-ceiling glass walls, you will instantly fall in love with it.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39890270892" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_155141"><img alt="1-20180121_155141" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4665/39890270892_eff3aeea81_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39890269332" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_152940"><img alt="1-20180121_152940" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4741/39890269332_5fd3b29530_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051293987" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_163011"><img alt="1-20180121_163011" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4614/25051293987_759a5b3d02_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">Elegant, chic and not pretentious. It is a darling during the day and turns into a cozy place to lounge at night thanks to dim lighting that adds peace and dimension to the space. It has an al-freso section too should you an uninterrupted view of the bay.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39922747301" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_153906"><img alt="1-20180121_153906" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4670/39922747301_60607d1bdb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39923054231" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_002454"><img alt="1-20180122_002454" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4619/39923054231_3d4a2e5503_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39923008481" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_192509"><img alt="1-20180121_192509" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4709/39923008481_5a31139fd5_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051562747" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_192520"><img alt="1-20180121_192520" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4667/25051562747_3fa553207e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051560867" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_192612"><img alt="1-20180121_192612" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4715/25051560867_6f5e420069_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>The beauty of the place doesn't end at the lobby.&nbsp;The wooden accent by the elevations, the well lit hallways are lovely.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212237314" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_145627"><img alt="1-20180121_145627" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4761/39212237314_ea729371ed_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024271205" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_144901"><img alt="1-20180121_144901" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4632/39024271205_95936fedb0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Twin Room with Bay View</span></b><br />The rooms are a delight. They have 8 room types ranging from 3,500++ pesos to 11,500++ php. Rooms got white wall paints accented with wall art and curtains of earth-tones. This is for me so pleasant to the eyes having stayed in so many (95% of hotels in Philippines I think) cream painted hotel rooms. The wooden cabinet with gray paint extends to the tv mount the and desk. This is one key feature consistent to each rooms and one that I love so much for the barn-like effect it gives to the rooms.We stayed in a Twin Room with bay view and it was a darling! The restroom is rather simple but I have nothing to complain. Power shower with hot and cold options works perfect.<br /><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049793958" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_142621"><img alt="1-20180121_142621" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4615/26049793958_80d6099ea4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049794458" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_143135"><img alt="1-20180121_143135" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4618/26049794458_5751590221_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049810058" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_144648"><img alt="1-20180121_144648" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4621/26049810058_909b85a7f2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049803928" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_143917"><img alt="1-20180121_143917" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4656/26049803928_eb3bd2d4b6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024045165" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_143259"><img alt="1-20180121_143259" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4754/39024045165_719e80715f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049806958" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_143944"><img alt="1-20180121_143944" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4648/26049806958_3e5da8e252_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049805958" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_144103"><img alt="1-20180121_144103" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4746/26049805958_8baa16d80a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049795548" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_142753"><img alt="1-20180121_142753" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4759/26049795548_47ef455820_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024273115" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_144805"><img alt="1-20180121_144805" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4673/39024273115_12a67e11f8_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049809548" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_144714"><img alt="1-20180121_144714" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4650/26049809548_366eb0b5b4_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br /><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Loft Rooms and Suite Rooms</span></b><br /><br />Visualize a room at a corner lot with both city and bay views you will enjoy thanks to high glass windows. Two storeys with a queen size bed at lower deck, another bed and a double deck at the upper floor. There is a spacious area by the small kitchen section that comes with a small dining table perfect for small a gathering. I imagined bring my friends here for wine night. It's perfect because the room is good for 5 persons which includes breakfast for 5!<br /><br />I actually cannot get over with the Loft Room. The moment I got inside I immediately thought to myself <i>"omg, this is perfect for wine night with my friends"</i>. I fell in love not just with the view but with the room itself on how homey it appealed to me. Yes, I want to bring my friends here and I think it would be a great venue to spend New Year's eve and witness the crazy fireworks of Metro Manila!!</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28143184259" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_150525"><img alt="1-20180121_150525" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4676/28143184259_3b834b1666_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024837055" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_151226"><img alt="1-20180121_151226" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4719/39024837055_237867e247_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024843135" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_150928"><img alt="1-20180121_150928" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4707/39024843135_56a477d43d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024846175" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_151439"><img alt="1-20180121_151439" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4707/39024846175_dda6909226_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br />And what about a room with your own fitness bike? Yes, they have a fitness room which is a guest room and not the gym at the rooftop.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39108081625" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_154419"><img alt="1-20180121_154419" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4608/39108081625_f4319ac35f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25135346417" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_154346"><img alt="1-20180121_154346" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4675/25135346417_7e48975eee_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">I also got the privilege of checking other rooms like the Suite Room with Bay view which is perfect for couples and honeymooners. Amazing Manila Bay view!</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39296436714" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_152118"><img alt="1-20180121_152118" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4720/39296436714_09ccbfc41c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Rooftop Pool</span></b><br />( With an uninterrupted view of Manila Bay Sunset)<br />The rooftop pool is my favorite hang out. Only a few ( I cannot even count 5) hotels literally next to Manila Bay got rooftop pools and TRYP is one of those elites. Say hello to an uninterrupted view ( thanks to building restrictions in this part of the Metro) of both the city and the bay plus the popular Manila Bay sunset. It was rather gloomy during our stay so we didn't get to see the sun set in full but it still worked wonder on the afternoon sky turning red sections of the horizon. Such a sight to behold. We enjoyed swimming here until night despite the cool water brought about by February weather.The pool area transforms into one romantic space at night thanks to the beautiful lighting of the pool lounge area and the pool itself. Got lots of nice photos here<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050049638" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_163255"><img alt="1-20180121_163255" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4742/26050049638_019aa65e99_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39890363652" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_165152"><img alt="1-20180121_165152" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4762/39890363652_a381aa2286_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25130559687" nbsp="" title="TRYP_MOA"><img alt="TRYP_MOA" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4677/25130559687_9d30caefa6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25130561237" nbsp="" title="TRYP_Hotel_Pool"><img alt="TRYP_Hotel_Pool" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4615/25130561237_36c613d753_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050136758" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_174942"><img alt="1-20180121_174942" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4755/26050136758_18c50bbc3f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39890376432" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_174930"><img alt="1-20180121_174930" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4665/39890376432_abde093cf0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39890568072" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_182854"><img alt="1-20180121_182854" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4678/39890568072_7553ed89bd_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39922985021" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_181659"><img alt="1-20180121_181659" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4614/39922985021_2446ba60f9_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024431225" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_180736"><img alt="1-20180121_180736" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4669/39024431225_f41cab1e37_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25130563407" nbsp="" title="Manila_Bay_Sunset_TRYP_Hotel"><img alt="Manila_Bay_Sunset_TRYP_Hotel" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4625/25130563407_5481bcbab2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br />Next to the pool is a gym. Small, but good enough for a nice cardio workout while enjoying the city view.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39108077085" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_145820"><img alt="1-20180121_145820" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4764/39108077085_9930808c40_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br /></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">I Celebrated my 37th Birthday Here!</span></b><br /><br />Oh, did I mention that I stayed here during my birthday? Yes. For two consecutive years I traveled solo during my birthday ( Hanoi 2016, Hong Kong 2017) but I decided to celebrate it home this 2018 and I can't be happier. It was one of the most feel good birthday I had. I was with my wife and her two sisters and we all enjoyed the place. I think it also comes with age, at 37, I am now more comfortable getting all the attention. The hotel learned about this and I got greeted each time staff see me. They even knocked at my room and they surprised me with a cheerful happy birthday song that comes with a lovely cake. If I were younger, I might have died of flattery.</div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024271715" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_144826"><img alt="1-20180121_144826" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4619/39024271715_c60aee18fc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26049786868" nbsp="" title="1-20180118_204344"><img alt="1-20180118_204344" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4673/26049786868_97e557fd81_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28142491529" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_143658"><img alt="1-20180121_143658" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4721/28142491529_ebecb8514a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28143001649" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_201802"><img alt="1-20180121_201802" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4762/28143001649_9745f7e547_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212560124" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_211216"><img alt="1-20180121_211216" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4615/39212560124_26965c58c7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">The hotel is only a few blocks away from SM Bayside and literally at the corner of the street is Vikings where we had buffet dinner. And you know with Vikings, you get free buffet on your birthday so i was really lucky! Vikings Bayside is huge and food was really satisfactory.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/28143001649" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_201802"><img alt="1-20180121_201802" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4762/28143001649_9745f7e547_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212560124" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_211216"><img alt="1-20180121_211216" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4615/39212560124_26965c58c7_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39923019191" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_202242"><img alt="1-20180121_202242" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4741/39923019191_0a6b2465d1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39923019191" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_202242"><img alt="1-20180121_202242" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4741/39923019191_0a6b2465d1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212560724" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_203337"><img alt="1-20180121_203337" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4706/39212560724_665c26dbcf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Breakfast Buffet</span></b></div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">The breakfast buffet is another thing one should look forward to. Eyes and other senses satisfied, it is time for the palate. We enjoyed the buffet spread dining by the al fresco section. They have quite a diverse spread for a 800++ php breakfast. Dining with the view of Manila Bay with food as good as this one will leave very good memories indeed.</div><div style="text-align: left;"><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051639727" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084156"><img alt="1-20180122_084156" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4677/25051639727_273d394321_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212635694" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084905"><img alt="1-20180122_084905" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4722/39212635694_33a2d32bdb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212635694" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084905"><img alt="1-20180122_084905" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4722/39212635694_33a2d32bdb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050432938" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084505"><img alt="1-20180122_084505" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4724/26050432938_3c8157cbcc_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050435458" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084438"><img alt="1-20180122_084438" height="448" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4612/26050435458_d419a79f65_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050429128" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084513"><img alt="1-20180122_084513" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4696/26050429128_e7d964c679_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050540558" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084757"><img alt="1-20180122_084757" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4668/26050540558_ca7d36e2cf_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39923096501" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084530"><img alt="1-20180122_084530" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4677/39923096501_d81233b857_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051662287" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_084646"><img alt="1-20180122_084646" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4744/25051662287_e7a1cdb8a3_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/25051696527" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_090215"><img alt="1-20180122_090215" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4662/25051696527_433986e4b0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024795245" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_093404"><img alt="1-20180122_093404" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4675/39024795245_ceb1b485fa_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050481588" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_085815"><img alt="1-20180122_085815" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4671/26050481588_ed84d82045_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050501988" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_090332"><img alt="1-20180122_090332" height="465" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4711/26050501988_84e0c9d5e6_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26050482088" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_085239"><img alt="1-20180122_085239" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4677/26050482088_0c90402ece_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024740205" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_092558"><img alt="1-20180122_092558" height="452" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4663/39024740205_ae44555461_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39024741175" nbsp="" title="1-20180122_092421"><img alt="1-20180122_092421" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4764/39024741175_657a7d0ae2_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: start;"><div style="text-align: left;">I mentioned that we had dinner buffet at Vikings the night before so it was a tall order but we found breakfast really good thinking that it costs only around 800++ pesos for walk in guests. It was definitely worth it. I liked all the dishes and food except the daggit which I found too salty so I suggested to their supervisor to check daggits from Pangasinan as I think they got the best danggit in the Philippines. Yes, I should know coz I am from Pangasinan.<br /><br />It was a relaxing, heartwarming weekend. TRYP By Wyndham Mall of Asia, the 1st TRYP Hotel in the Philippines is indeed Game Changer in the Mid-Range Hotel Category. I did not go wrong in deciding to celebrate my birthday here. My heart and thanks goes to all the staff who made our stay something to cherish and remember.<br /><br /></div></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/39212720124" nbsp="" title="1-20180121_162755"><img alt="1-20180121_162755" height="471" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4744/39212720124_1920957732_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>Do Follow TRYP By Wyndham Mall of Asia on Social Media<br />for the latest promos, events and discounts&gt;<br /><br />Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TRYPmnl/?ref=br_rs">https://www.facebook.com/TRYP</a><br /><div style="text-align: left;">Twitter:&nbsp;<a href="https://twitter.com/TRYPMNL">https://twitter.com/TRYPMNL</a><br />Deskgram:&nbsp;<a href="http://deskgram.org/trypmnl">http://deskgram.org/trypmnl</a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Instagram:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.instagram.com/trypmnl/">https://www.instagram.com/trypmnl/</a></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">_______________________</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">TRYP By Wyndham Mall of Asia&nbsp;</span></b></div>Address: Seaside Boulevard corner J.W. Diokno Blvd.,&nbsp;</div><div>Mall of Asia Complex, Pasay City, Metro Manila, Philippines&nbsp;</div><div>Website:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tryphotels.com/en/our-hotels/philippines/pasay-city-metro-manila/tryp-by-wyndham-mall-of-asia-manila/">https://www.tryphotels.com/en/our-hotels/philippines</a></div><div>Call: +63 2 840 8000<br />Fax: +63 2 659 4226<br />Email: sales@TRYP.PH</div></div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-55030126192971252992018-01-12T10:02:00.001+08:002018-07-12T19:29:02.050+08:00SIEM REAP CAMBODIA: Riversoul Residence, The 1961 Coworking & Art Space and Meeting Kuya Loven RamosMy 2nd time and Siem Reap in a space of 4 years and I realized the city has gone so pricey for backpackers. Going back to Angkor Complex excited me but all that died out when I learned that entrance to this UNESCO World Heritage Site has gone up to $37 from $20 when I last visited. It definitely is worth the price tag but for a 2nd-timer? Nah! Not for me. I refused to go and asked my travel buddy to tour alone instead while I rested at our hostel.<br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38888313681/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR7483"><img alt="1-GOPR7483" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4525/38888313681_5e1203fc05_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br>I suddenly had myself wonder &quot;what the hell am I doing in Siem Reap if not for Angkor Complex?&quot;. But there is more to it. For one, I wanted my partner to see Angkor Wat. Then there is the visit to Pub Street and small shopping at the Old Market, something I missed doing the first time. Then there&#39;s experiences two cool hostels which I am excited to write about next so as to be helpful to my readers who are in search of affordable but good quality accommodations.<br><div><br></div><div>Best of all, there&#39;s meeting kuya Loven, &quot;the&quot; Loven Ramos, who I have known since 2008 in the onset of my blogging life and who I have been friends and in constant communication with on Facebook and Instagram but I have never met until this trip.<br><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38888340521/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-GOPR7503"><img alt="1-GOPR7503" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4558/38888340521_39b79d4450_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/24982155308" nbsp="" title="1-20170714_195659"><img alt="1-20170714_195659" height="422" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4523/24982155308_8ce85d1fe7_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/27111915659" nbsp="" title="1-20170714_200431-002"><img alt="1-20170714_200431-002" height="409" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4523/27111915659_a1bd9240fd_z.jpg" width="640"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br>The last time we were here, out schedule was so packed that we didn&#39;t have time to met him. And boy he has gone so far. I am just honored that despite him being a big shot now, he still took the time to meet us and spend a few hours knowing more about what is going on in our lives.<br><div><br><div>This I learned only a few days before going to Cambodia, that other than being an active shaper of Siem Reap&#39;s art scene, kuya Loven also manages a hotel in the city -- Riversoul Residence. This was where we met him. I felt so honored meeting kuya Loven finally. Since then I have always admired him for his achievements and now he is BIGGER than ever. He has definitely made a splash in Siem Reap despite being an expat and Filipino at that. I was actually nervous seeing him but I felt instantly comfortable because this person is stripped of any air or complications despite his status. The fact that he took the time to meet us despite his very busy schedule is something I am very thankful for.<br></div></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2018/01/siem-reap-cambodia-riversoul-residence.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-3761379744305160462017-12-21T01:09:00.001+08:002017-12-21T01:22:36.438+08:00Travel Sleep Tips to Stay Well-RestedIt happens to all of us travellers at one time or another – we arrive at our dream destination but find ourselves to exhausted to enjoy it.Instead of soaking in the sights and sounds of a new city all we want to do is soak in a bath.<br><br>What a lot of people don’t realise is that travel is hard-work. Living out of a backpack, sleeping in unfamiliar rooms, jet-lag, night trains, unfamiliar food, new languages, the heat – it’s no wonder many travellers, especially inexperienced ones, spend most of their trip-of-a-lifetime’s with bags under their eyes.<br><br>But it needn&#39;t be this way. Below are some top tips to stay well-rested when you are on the road.<br><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br>1. Sort out your pre-trip preparation</span></b><br><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br></span></b>The worst way to start your trip is to leave home already feeling rundown and exhausted, yet so many of us do.Eliminate any last minute surprises, such as lost passports, by packing your bag a week in advance – not the night before.<br><br><div>If you are heading away on a big trip and need to say goodbye to your friends and family, then make sure to move your leaving party forward a week. Definitely definitely don’t have it the night before you get on the place. That is just asking for trouble.Your travel insurance won’t pay out if you’ve missed your flight due to a hangover – I found this one out the hard way!</div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38470566254/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="inflatable-pillow"><img alt="inflatable-pillow" height="333" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4588/38470566254_bacd1aed84.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><i>photo credits &gt;&amp;gt</i>; <a href="https://cdn.trendhunterstatic.com/thumbs/inflatable-pillow.jpeg">here</a></div><br><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">2. Beat the jet-lag</span></b><br><br>Jet-lag is the worst.It can make you feel completely and utterly zombified for the first few days at your new destination.While it can be hard to eliminate the phenomenon completely there are a number of steps you can take to mitigate its impact.One tip is to gradually alter your own bedtime by 30 minutes a night in the week before you leave home. This will help you synchronise up with your intended destination.<br><br>Tip two is to do with your in-flight behaviour. As soon as you step on the plane change your watch to match the time at your destination. Work out if you should stay awake as much as you can or sleep as much as possible. This might mean skipping some films. Sorry!<br><br>Tip three is to stay hydrated. One of the main reasons will feel so zonked out on arrival at our destination is due to the simple fact we don’t drink enough water in transit. Cabin pressure causes a lot of dehydration. So do your body a favour, skip the free in-flight booze and down as much H2O as you can.<br><br>For more tips on how to get a first class ticket to sleepytown each flight, check out the <a href="https://www.sleepadvisor.org/">experienced tips from the Sleep advisor</a> blog. <br><br><br></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/12/travel-sleep-tips-to-stay-well-rested.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-9772437874040551862017-12-03T14:26:00.000+08:002017-12-03T14:26:33.888+08:00Novotel Manila Araneta Center Holiday Offerings 2017 #GatherNCelebrateA staycation package that includes both breakfast and dinner buffet for two? I don&#39;t hear much about such. So, chances are, you get to have a good room rate and nice breakfast that comes with it but end up shelling out more money from your pocket for dinner. At Novotel Manila Araneta Center this Christmas season 2017, you get to stay and not worry about breakfast and dinner. It&#39;s a Christmas treat you cannot afford to miss! Not only that, two (2) kids 15 and below will also get free breakfast and dinner buffet! Now that&#39;s what I call a &quot;good deal!&quot;.<br><br>It&#39;s the time of the year again to #GatherNCelebrate. From Staycation to dining to events, there&#39;s lots in store for everyone this Christmas Season 2017 at Novotel Manila Araneta Center.<br><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script> <a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/31135231220" nbsp="" title="fruitcake"><img alt="fruitcake" height="333" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/290/31135231220_c0dbb1a847.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/31509021785" nbsp="" title="cookies, macarons"><img alt="cookies, macarons" height="333" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/424/31509021785_5e57a4d59b.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/31359688492" nbsp="" title="gingerbread house"><img alt="gingerbread house" height="333" src="https://farm1.staticflickr.com/155/31359688492_655f12054a.jpg" width="500"></a><br><br></div></div><div><div style="text-align: center;"><br><div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">Holiday Staycation</span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;">I had nothing but tons of fun memories of our staycation at Novotel Manila Araneta Center. You too can have a great time with friends and loved ones! </div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Read: </b>-<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2016/08/novotel-manila-araneta-center-city-of.html">NOVOTEL MANILA ARANETA CENTER: The City of Stars has a New Star! </a></span></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;"><br></span></b></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Superior Room</b> Php 7,500 nett</div></div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>De Luxe Room </b>Php 8,125 nett<br><b>Executive Room</b> Php 10,625 nett</div><div style="text-align: left;"><b>Executive Suite</b> Php 13,750 nett<br></div></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/12/novotel-manila-araneta-center-holiday.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-11005324689453220092017-11-23T00:22:00.001+08:002017-11-26T13:41:33.336+08:00Forget Pan de Surf, Siargao's #BukoPanada is here! @LouiseCakes&Pastries<br><i></i><br><div style="text-align: center;"><i><i>I think I rattled them when I asked &quot;is your store popular?&quot;. I didn&#39;t mean to be rude, and actually, I was meaning to ask &quot;are you popular for something?&quot;. My goal after all is to hit something unique that I can share to my readers. We were lucky! They are selling something I never seen or heard of before -- an empanada with young buko meat inside. Thus, <b>&quot;bukopanada&quot;.</b></i></i></div><i> </i><br><br>When one searches online for something to eat in Siargao, Pan de Surf comes out on top. This is a bread that is shaped like a surf board. Makes sense because Siargao is the surfing capital of the Philippines known the world over. It is actually a clever idea. It is so popular that the advise I read is that be early because it easily runs out. So we went around 1:00 pm after lunch. It was our last day in Siargao so we had to seize every time available. Our receptionist at the hostel told us &quot; it&#39;s just in front of the Catholic Church in General Luna&quot;. Immediately off we go with the three of us in one habal-habal.<br><br>What I didn&#39;t expect is that there is actually no shop. I was anticipating a bakery but what is there is a stall at a narrow sidewalk in front of a house that almost occupied the main road. I was like &quot; that was it?&quot;. Worse, it was closed! Our driver managed to call the attention of the people inside and ask what time they will be baking. The lady inside said &quot;around 4:00 pm&quot;.<br><br><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38489515312/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="BukoPanada"><img alt="BukoPanada" height="375" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4577/38489515312_67dbd0f073.jpg" width="500"></a><br><span style="text-align: start;"><i>Louise&#39; Buko Panda is perfect. The bread is thin and tender, </i></span><br><span style="text-align: start;"><i>almost crunchy, and the buko inside is really soft and young. </i></span><br><span style="text-align: start;"><i>You will get so addicted to it that couldn&#39;t stop eating one after another. </i></span><br><span style="text-align: start;"><i>Kulang pa small box kung sakin lang. </i></span><br><span style="text-align: start;"><i>And while eating it, my mind keeps saying &#39; this is a brilliant idea&quot;. Indeed!</i> </span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38521831631/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="BukoPanada_Siargao"><img alt="BukoPanada_Siargao" height="375" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4527/38521831631_cf8f8bc89f.jpg" width="500"></a><br><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38521587481/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20171007_124125"><img alt="1-20171007_124125" height="375" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4575/38521587481_e69af4735d.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><br></div><div>But we have surfing schedule 5 pm so we could wait nor manage to go back. Never mind then. We decide to move on and find something else interesting. Immediately next to where they make the popular bread is a sari sari store that sells home made ice cream in small cups for only 15 pesos. We saw many interesting flavors like ube and buko pandan. We tried it and it was good. Moving on.<br><div><br></div><div>We decided to go for a walk along the main road from the church area since we didn&#39;t have any definite schedule before of surfing session. The idea spurred from Mon, our friend. He loves walking around places checking establishments for something unique in them. This turned out to be a very different experience I tried in the many years I&#39;ve been travelling. Yes,I have talked to local, owners of businesses, but not on this in-depth level and not in this manner where we checked one interesting place after another and talk to their owners.<br></div></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/11/forget-pan-de-surf-siargaos-bukopanada.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-28318442343776295742017-11-18T20:17:00.002+08:002018-07-30T19:03:51.234+08:00Bamboo Garden Bar and Lodge: #Pacifico #SanIsidro #SiargaoSo I booked a room here, queen size bed, private, for only 1000 php a night so I wasn't expecting much out of that value especially for a beach hut accommodation. Plus, the photos I saw online were not bad but not that great either. Turns out that the place is a darling. It looks and feels waaaaaaay better than online and we were so happy.<br /><br />We came at around 3 pm just before the sun set low on the horizon and the weather was perfect. By golden hour, the place felt so surreal. You know feeling of being next to sea, the waves serenading you, the sun punctuating through coconut trees, the air so fresh. At that time, I said to myself, "oh Siargao, why is that here the green grass looks greener, the blue sky looks bluer and the fresh air feels fresher". It certainly sets the good mood and tempo for our 5 days stay in the island.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26648319959/in/photostream/" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_160117"><img alt="1-20171004_160117" height="428" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4530/26648319959_2e9ea115c1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551276495" nbsp="" title="1-20171005_071600"><img alt="1-20171005_071600" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4575/37551276495_312ba54efb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>Also, since I booked just a week before our trip, I just went for the cheapest one I could find. I didn't realize until the day of the trip that it is located in Pacifico ( San Isidro) which is an hour drive by motorbike from General Luna which is the main surfing location ( Cloud 9) and where most accommodation, pubs and restaurants are located. But it turned out great because the area is the quieter side of Siargao and we were so delighted we started the first two days of our trip in a relaxed, slow-paced tempo.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551276495" nbsp="" title="1-20171005_071600"><img alt="1-20171005_071600" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4575/37551276495_312ba54efb_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/24566933848" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_165431"><img alt="1-20171004_165431" height="478" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4540/24566933848_74463d201a_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38381878036" nbsp="" title="1-20171005_071631"><img alt="1-20171005_071631" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4519/38381878036_ee0c5d61ea_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26648321279" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_155826"><img alt="1-20171004_155826" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4523/26648321279_d91ae0933c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><b><span style="font-family: &quot;courier new&quot; , &quot;courier&quot; , monospace; font-size: large;">About Bamboo Garden Bar and Lodge</span></b><br /><br />Pacifico, San Isidro, Surigao Island,<br />8421, Surigao del Norte, Philippines<br />email: <a href="mailto:bamboopacifico@gmail.com">bamboopacifico@gmail.com</a><a href="http://www.bamboosiargao.com/">http://www.bamboosiargao.com</a><br /><br />Experience the peace and tranquility that Siargao Island has to offer, at Bamboo Garden, Pacifico.<br />Whether you are visiting the island to surf the world class waves, explore the caves, snorkel the emerald waters or to just simply sit, relax and unwind, Bamboo Garden provides the perfect tropical escape for all.<br /><br />Located on the eastern side of the island, just past Pacifico surfing village, we offer idyllic, affordable beach front cottages that overlook a white sand beach with views across the Pacific Ocean.<br /><div><b>Source</b>: <i>website</i><br /><i><br /></i> <b>View Property Location</b><i><b> </b>&gt;&gt;&gt; <a href="http://www.bamboosiargao.com/location">here</a></i><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38381806376" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_160250"><img alt="1-20171004_160250" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4584/38381806376_f19c2ae7b1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551246165" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_165235"><img alt="1-20171004_165235" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4543/37551246165_66fab21393_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38466857292" nbsp="" title="1-20171006_073420"><img alt="1-20171006_073420" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4585/38466857292_f4d0d35012_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/24566933088" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_164937"><img alt="1-20171004_164937" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4566/24566933088_000b6e618f_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>There are 4 room types at Bamboo Siargao 1.) Love Shack and 2.) Beach Cottage both with max 2 pax and double beds you can book starting at 900 php. 3.) Beach House and 4.) Jungle House with rates starting at 1,300 php. Beach house sleeps 4 pax and Jungle house can accommodate up to 5 pax. We originally booked a beach cottage but since another friend joined us, we were upgraded to a Beach House for only 1,100 php.<br /><br />A beach house got a queen size bed at the ground floor and a single bed too while at the private deck (2nd floor) are two single beds. All fan room with hot and cold shower installed and mosquito nets per bed. Going back to our accommodation is like going back home each time. Bamboo Lodge Siargao got two sections,one on the beach side and one on the jungle side. See stayed at the latter side. We liked it here too coz it's really peaceful at night amidst the&nbsp;</div><div>cconut trees that punctuate the property.</div><div><br /></div><div>Have a look at their <a href="http://www.bamboosiargao.com/rooms---rates">Rooms &amp; Rates</a>&nbsp;</div><div>for more information and booking inquiries.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551250495" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_164952"><img alt="1-20171004_164952" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4546/37551250495_ebc8df6b7c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551233155" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_164740"><img alt="1-20171004_164740" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4575/37551233155_300278ce4b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551237135" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_164616"><img alt="1-20171004_164616" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4542/37551237135_1bd6249a65_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/24566926548" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_164541"><img alt="1-20171004_164541" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4516/24566926548_decb8db900_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551234985" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_164715"><img alt="1-20171004_164715" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4581/37551234985_cca72e3d09_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br />We enjoyed having meals at Bamboo bar. Their seafood vegetables and curry I highly recommend as well as their pizza and burger. I would say they have a really good chef. Hanging out at the gazebo next to beach is so relaxing, weather you are sipping cold beer or simply looking at the infinite view of the pacific ocean. <br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/24553648538" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_154931"><img alt="1-20171004_154931" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4562/24553648538_ecb6fec8e0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38393240902" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_154913"><img alt="1-20171004_154913" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4563/38393240902_3eb47a2f3b_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/37551233005" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_161248"><img alt="1-20171004_161248" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4548/37551233005_4e42dc56c1_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/26648319349" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_155541"><img alt="1-20171004_155541" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4519/26648319349_d94670dcf0_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/24566932998" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_165448"><img alt="1-20171004_165448" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4532/24566932998_77410d6a4c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div>The beach is white sand and I was surprised how good it is. Not very ideal for swimming but good for beginners to intermediate surfers. We met the owners George and Mj at the ferry on our way to the island from Surigao City and they were so nice to give us a ride in their private car to the resort. Had some fun conversations with them during our stay and it made us really feel so at home with the place. There are so many things to say. All we had were good memories of the place.<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38381819606" nbsp="" title="1-20171004_160137"><img alt="1-20171004_160137" height="426" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4536/38381819606_385230544c_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38498892101" nbsp="" title="1-20171006_062348"><img alt="1-20171006_062348" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4566/38498892101_f9f64ccd5d_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38443423206/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="1-20171006_062410"><img alt="1-20171006_062410" height="480" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4573/38443423206_1f8b09de6e_z.jpg" width="640" /></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script><br /><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><br />Many of their guests are Westerners. We were the only Filipino there at that time and most guests stay for days, even weeks. The German couple next to our hut thought of transferring to Clod 9 area after a few days stay here but they decided to extend after checking the area which they find crowded. They preferred the quietness of Pacifico.<br /><br />______________________</div>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5624994690184358184.post-31292763042341415222017-11-16T23:16:00.001+08:002017-11-16T23:16:54.626+08:006 Most Innovative Schools in the World<br><br><b>Description: </b>Read the article and learn about the best examples of an innovative approach to teaching and learning that allow every child develop his best abilities.<br><br><b>H1: The Most Innovative Schools in the World</b><br><br>While the majority of us were educated in a traditional way, memorizing facts from old-fashionable paper textbooks, slaving away on handwriting assignments and trying to find answersto some boring questions like ‘<a href="https://ukessaynow.com/blog/what-is-a-reaction-paper/">What Is a Reaction Paper</a>?’, there are lots of schools around the globe what take a different approach when it comes to teaching and to learning. These are places where educators consider classrooms as more than just places to dive into textbooks. Here are the best examples of schools where students can get unique and inspiring experiences.<br><br><b>H2: Makoko Floating School, Nigeria</b><br><br>The school was founded in 2012 the help of the Heinrich Böll Foundation and the United Nations. This floating school for all ages is three stories high and can resist rising water levels in the lagoon. It can serve as a great example for future building projects in the coastal regions in Africa. The school is equipped with solar panels to collect energy. It has a total area of 1,000sq feetthat can house up to 100 students and consists of classrooms, a play area, and compost toilets.<br><div><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38430031922/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="Makoko_Floating_School_NLE_Images5-960x550"><img alt="Makoko_Floating_School_NLE_Images5-960x550" height="286" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4578/38430031922_4d4e63c5b0.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><b>Makoko Floating School, Nigeria</b></div><div style="text-align: center;">Photo Credits: <a href="http://www.nleworks.com/case/makoko-floating-school/">http://www.nleworks.com/case/makoko-floating-school/</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38462016221/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="o"><img alt="o" height="333" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4565/38462016221_7e42fc8806.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div><div style="text-align: center;">AltSchool US - photo credits:<a href="https://www.yelp.com/biz_photos/altschool-soma-san-francisco-4?select=c0rUXik9ay3oEaTvvFcxSw"> https://www.yelp.com</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a data-flickr-embed="true" href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/salingpusa/38462104271/in/dateposted/" nbsp="" title="egalia-preschool-stockholm-sweden-062011jpg-5e3c349e898f9337"><img alt="egalia-preschool-stockholm-sweden-062011jpg-5e3c349e898f9337" height="332" src="https://farm5.staticflickr.com/4549/38462104271_21f7ce2f11.jpg" width="500"></a><script async="" charset="utf-8" src="//embedr.flickr.com/assets/client-code.js"></script></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="text-align: start;"><i>Egalia Pre-School, Sweden.</i> Photo credits: </span><a href="http://www.cleveland.com/world/index.ssf/2011/06/no_him_or_her_in_swedish_presc.html">http://www.cleveland.com</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br></div><br><b>H2: AltSchool, the United States</b><br><br>The first AltSchool was opened in San Francisco in 2013 and it provides personalized learning experience to kids from ages 4 to 14. The school completely differs from the traditional education as it avoids common testing model. Children learn technology skills and develop flexible thinking to adapt to the realities of the constantly changing world. Children transform ordinary things into circuit boards and learn to do 3D models as they build playhouses. The learning process is not an ordinary consumption of figures and facts. Kids learn to problem solve and social-emotional learning is a priority. AltSchool is growing and expending to Palo Alto, California and Brooklyn, New York. In the future, they want to go nationwide.<br></div><a href="http://www.pusangkalye.net/2017/11/6-most-innovative-schools-in-world.html#more"></a>Anton Carranzahttps://plus.google.com/103589950329062963895noreply@blogger.com0